Switch 2 Includes These Helpful GameChat Accessibility Features – Report

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It seems that GameChat on Switch 2 will offer two useful features: a social hub for online chatting among players, and the ability to simultaneously stream games with others. A recent report hints at the inclusion of text-to-speech capabilities and real-time chat transcription in the upcoming hybrid console.

In a video posted by OatmealDome (via VGC), there’s a demonstration of GameChat functionality in Super Mario Party Jamboree TV + Switch 2 Edition, which is a Japanese video game. The video shows a player typing text, and then a voice reads the same text for other players. A keyboard appears on screen to type the message. While keyboard support hasn’t been confirmed for Switch 2 yet, given that the original Switch does have this feature, many believe it will eventually be available on the new system as well.

GameChat features a text-to-speech function. By activating this feature, you can write text and have the system verbally read it aloud to you. Although not definitively stated, it’s likely that USB keyboards will work with this as well, given that the Switch already supports them for text input.

— OatmealDome (@OatmealDome) May 16, 2025

Furthermore, OatmealDome posted a screenshot during X showcasing real-time chat transcription, also known as speech-to-text. These accessibility tools would benefit Deaf and non-speaking communities, and offer alternatives for players who can’t use headphones or speak aloud (such as on public transportation). However, it’s important to note that Nintendo has not demonstrated this feature functioning in English or other languages at this point.

Nintendo is giving significant attention to its new feature called GameChat, and they’ve even recruited Paul Rudd again for a commercial promoting the Switch 2, emphasizing its social hub aspect. Additionally, some original games on the Switch are receiving free updates that will incorporate GameChat functionality, including Clubhouse Games: 51 Worldwide Classics and Super Mario Odyssey.

When you engage in audio and video conversations using the new feature, GameChat, Nintendo might save those interactions. It’s worth noting that Nintendo isn’t alone in this practice; both Microsoft and Sony gather similar data on their respective platforms, Xbox and PlayStation.

The second version of Switch will be released on June 5 at a price point of $450 within the United States. Despite pre-orders being snapped up quickly, the head of Nintendo of America, Doug Bowser, is confident that they can cater to the demand for Switch 2 throughout the entire year.

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2025-05-19 17:09