Nintendo Switch now lets you use Pixel phones as webcams
What's the story
The Nintendo Switch 2 has added support for Google Pixel smartphones as webcams, a major improvement from its initial launch. The console, which doesn't come with a built-in webcam, relies on external ones to fully utilize the GameChat feature. This allows players to livestream their faces during multiplayer matches. While compatibility with various webcams was initially inconsistent, it has improved over time.
New feature
A new addition to Switch 2's webcam compatibility
Despite Nintendo's claims of broad USB webcam compatibility, early tests showed that Pixel smartphones weren't usable as webcams at launch. This was true even when the device's settings were switched to Google's USB webcam mode introduced with Android 14. However, later on, both Android and iOS phones were found to be compatible with the console as webcams, albeit with additional hardware like USB-C to HDMI adapters and HDMI capture cables.
Connection process
Connecting Pixel smartphones to Switch 2
To use a Pixel smartphone as a webcam for the Switch 2, users have to connect it with a USB-C cable and change the USB preferences to "Webcam." This was successfully tested with a Pixel 9 Pro connected directly to the console's top USB-C port. After changing the settings, it worked perfectly as GameChat's camera, providing an improved experience for players.
User experience
Impact on gamers and potential reasons for compatibility
The new feature is a major improvement for gamers who travel with their Switch 2 and don't want to carry an extra webcam. However, it's still unclear if this change is due to recent updates from Google or Nintendo. The Pixel 9 Pro used in the test was running the Android 16 December release at the time of testing.