Adding a proper chat system to the Nintendo Switch 2 is a godsend, but it isn’t perfect. There’s a long way to go before it reaches the simplicity of PS5 or Xbox parties. However, if you’re partial to using a webcam while playing with your friends, the good news is that Nintendo’s dedicated accessory is ready to be retired. Thanks to a recent update to Google Pixel devices, you can turn your phone into a high-quality alternative.

You may remember that an update to the Nintendo Switch 2 in June ensures players can use different webcams now. This mainly applies to your typical accessories, like the ones you’re plugging into a laptop, desktop, or even a handheld PC. Nintendo’s initial update includes support for a wide range of Logitech and Razer products, too. Now, you can pair your Google Pixel to the console, and you don’t even need any third-party applications to do it.

In Android 14, plenty of the best Google Pixel phones received an update that made generic webcams compatible with the device. The latest build of Android 16, however, seems to have completely fixed any previous issues that prevented Pixel handsets from pairing with the Nintendo Switch 2. It isn’t clear whether Android or Nintendo intervened first through firmware updates, but savvy players are already highlighting the change.

As Android Authority highlights, you only need a USB-C to make it happen. Really, it’s that simple. Right now, Google Pixel phones are the only Android mobiles that benefit from this feature. I’m hoping it becomes widely available, as I’d happily use my Nothing Phone (3a) Pro with Nintendo Switch 2 GameChat. But what about iOS users? Well, I’m afraid it isn’t quite this simple, at least not yet.

If you’re hoping to pair your iPhone or even your iPad with your Nintendo Switch 2, there are quite a few hoops to jump through. We’re talking third-party apps, messing around with settings, and a whole other bunch of stuff that isn’t really worth the hassle. But the platform is still young, leaving plenty of time for someone to figure out a better solution. Or maybe Apple can just step in and make it easier, but there’s a greater chance of Fortnite appearing on the App Store properly than that.

As for Nintendo’s own accessory, it’s a mixed bag. You can read our Nintendo Switch 2 camera review to see how it fares. Alternatively, our guide to the best Nintendo Switch 2 cameras is worth checking out.