Google Pixel phones can now function as webcams for Nintendo Switch 2

The Nintendo Switch 2 supports video chat in multiplayer games. (Image source: Nintendo)

Nintendo Switch 2 owners don’t necessarily need to buy the official Nintendo webcam to use the console’s video chat function. Not only is the Switch 2 compatible with a wide range of third-party cameras, but Google Pixel phones can now also serve as webcams for the system.

Hannes Brecher (translated by Zhiwei Zhuang), Published 12/08/2025 🇩🇪

Although the Nintendo Switch 2 (approx. $449 on Amazon) supports video chat, the feature requires both an active Nintendo Switch Online membership and a compatible camera. Besides the official Nintendo Switch 2 Camera (approx. $54 on Amazon), many third-party USB webcams are likewise compatible with the console. Reddit users have compiled a list of webcams that have been tested to work with the Switch 2.

Android Authority recently confirmed that Google Pixel phones can now serve as cameras for the Switch 2 – a capability that was unavailable when Nintendo’s hybrid console first launched. This issue appears to have been resolved by either Google or Nintendo. With the latest version of Android 16, a Google Pixel phone will immediately be recognised as a webcam when connected to a Switch 2 via a USB-C cable.

No additional software is required. However, the device must be set to webcam mode in the system settings. This is done by selecting “Webcam” under “Use USB for” in the “USB preferences” menu. In this mode, Pixel smartphones work as standard USB Video Class (UVC) webcams. The Switch 2’s GameChat feature allows the faces of up to three friends to appear on screen alongside a live feed of their gameplay. Users can also opt to hide their background to maximise screen space for the game itself. More details about GameChat are available on Nintendo’s website, and the video below shows the feature in action.

Source(s)

Android Authority | Nintendo | Reddit

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Editor of the original article: Hannes Brecher - Senior Tech Writer - 19381 articles published on Notebookcheck since 2018

Since 2009 I have written for different publications with a focus on consumer electronics. I joined the Notebookcheck news team in 2018 and have combined my many years of experience with laptops and smartphones with my lifelong passion for technology to create informative content for our readers about new developments in this sphere. In addition, my design background as an art director at an ad agency has allowed me to have deeper insights into the peculiarities of this industry.

contact me via: @HannesBrecher, LinkedIn, Xing

Translator: Zhiwei Zhuang - Translator - 516 articles published on Notebookcheck since 2022

After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering, I moved from Singapore to Cologne in 2014 and began pursuing a career as a freelance translator. Much of my translation work focuses on science, engineering and technology. My fascination with computers and mobile electronics began when I was young. And I have fond memories reading countless tech and gaming magazines. Working with Notebookcheck gives me the opportunity to incorporate my personal interests into my professional work.

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