When Nintendo first introduced the Switch 2, users quickly discovered that the console’s ability to pair with various external webcams was inconsistent and unreliable. Some devices connected smoothly, while others failed to register at all, creating a frustrating experience for early adopters. Although a webcam is not an essential peripheral for the system’s core gameplay, it becomes a vital component for those who wish to unlock the full potential of the Switch 2’s GameChat feature. GameChat allows players to broadcast their facial expressions in real time, overlaying their live video feed during online multiplayer sessions — a function that brings a more personal and immersive social dynamic to competitive gaming. Because the Switch 2 lacks a built-in camera, connecting an external webcam was the only way to enable this experience. Fortunately, compatibility has improved significantly since launch, and according to a detailed report from Android Authority, Pixel smartphone owners can now take advantage of an even more convenient solution.
When Nintendo initially asserted that the Switch 2 supported most USB webcams, independent tests painted a different picture. During early trials, Pixel phones failed to operate as webcams, even when placed in the dedicated USB webcam mode that Google introduced with Android 14. At that time, users seeking to use their smartphones in this capacity were forced to rely on elaborate workarounds involving multiple accessories — such as USB-C to HDMI adapters and HDMI capture devices — to bridge the gap between phone and console. These setups were cumbersome and not ideal for gamers seeking simplicity or portability.
In a welcome shift, that extra hardware is now unnecessary. Recent experiments confirmed that a Pixel 9 Pro can connect directly to the Switch 2’s top USB-C port using only a single cable. Once the device’s USB preferences are switched to the “Webcam” setting, the phone functions seamlessly as a camera input for GameChat. This streamlined process transforms the experience of titles like Mario Kart World and other multiplayer favorites: not only can gamers communicate vocally with competitors across the globe, but they can also see their friends’ reactions and faces live, superimposed over gameplay streams, adding a new emotional dimension to every match.
It remains uncertain whether this improved integration stems from a software update on Google’s side, a firmware enhancement by Nintendo, or a combination of both — especially since the tested Pixel 9 Pro was running the December release of Android 16. Regardless of the technical origin, the outcome marks a notable quality-of-life improvement for Switch 2 owners. For frequent travelers or players who prefer a lightweight setup, the ability to transform a smartphone into a functional webcam eliminates the need to pack additional peripherals. This development elegantly bridges mobile and console ecosystems, offering a more refined, portable, and user-friendly way to stay visually connected while gaming on the go.
Sourse: https://www.theverge.com/news/839133/google-pixel-smartphone-nintendo-switch-2-webcam
