One of the coolest new features of the Nintendo Switch 2 is GameChat, which lets you group chat with your online friends over voice and video. While that’s a standard functionality of other consoles, it’s exciting that Nintendo is finally offering its own version of the feature. The Switch 2 has built-in mics for voice chat, but if you want to use video chat, you might want to preorder the official Nintendo Switch 2 Camera for $55. Nintendo also says select third-party webcams will be supported, including an officially licensed Piranha Plant version of the Switch 2 Camera from Hori. Online preorders for the Switch 2 Camera are available now alongside the console, launch games, and numerous other accessories.

The Nintendo Switch 2 Camera can be used in TV mode, tabletop mode, or handheld mode. Its angle can be adjusted to ensure you remain in the picture, and its wide-angle lens ensures even large groups will show up in the image.

You’ll need to have a Nintendo Switch Online membership to use GameChat. However, GameChat will have a brief open access period that allows everyone to try the feature for free. As mentioned above, some third-party USB-C cameras may also be compatible with the Switch 2. Nintendo will offer a “Test USB Camera” feature in the system settings so you can check if your device is supported.

The Switch 2 Camera looks to be a great pairing with several Switch 2 multiplayer games, including the console’s biggest launch title, Mario Kart World. The camera will let you video chat with your friends while playing in the online multiplayer mode. Super Mario Party Jamboree + Jamboree TV Switch 2 Edition launches on July 24 and will include special modes that show your face in-game and mini games that use the Switch 2 Camera. Both are available to preorder now, along with the console itself and numerous other Switch 2 games and accessories.

Nintendo Switch 2 Official Accessory Preorders

Nintendo Switch 2 Game Preorders

Switch 2 Exclusives:

More Switch 2 Games: