Nintendo may record your voice and video when you use GameChat on Switch 2 "for security and community compliance purposes"

With the launch of GameChat, players will be able to enjoy a full-fledged voice and video chat experience right on their Nintendo Switch 2 console, without the need for third-party apps. At the same time, the company has updated its privacy policy: now Nintendo can record users' audio and video chats to ensure security and compliance with community rules.

Here's What We Know

GameChat is a Switch 2 feature that allows up to 12 players to communicate by voice at the same time, share the screen, and connect a USB-C camera for video chats with up to four people in a session. Chatting can be started instantly by pressing the new C-button on the right Joy-Con, and the built-in microphone provides high-quality sound without additional devices.

Nintendo explains that GameChat audio and video recording may be used to protect players, enforce rules, and comply with legal requirements. Data is collected with the user's permission - probably through consent when the feature is first launched or in the terms of use. Similar approaches have long been used by Xbox and PlayStation, where recording chat helps to combat abuse and maintain a safe online environment.

GameChat will be free for all Switch 2 owners until 31 March 2026. After that, a Nintendo Switch Online subscription will be required to use the feature. Nintendo has paid special attention to parental controls: children under 16 will need parental permission to use GameChat via the updated Parental Controls app.

Source: Nintendo