Use Smartphones as Cameras for Switch 2, Save $55 on Accessories

Key Takeaways

1. The Switch 2 is now available, and users generally appreciate its performance, despite some complaints about accessory prices.
2. A YouTuber has found a cost-effective way to use a smartphone as a webcam for the Switch 2’s GameChat feature.
3. The Switch 2 supports UVC-compatible webcams, allowing for budget-friendly alternatives with video capture cables.
4. Connecting a smartphone to the Switch 2 requires a USB Type-C to HDMI cable and an active webcam app on the phone.
5. This method can save users $55 on the official camera accessory, making it a practical option for gamers.


The Switch 2 has finally become available to the public, and besides a few small complaints, most people are really liking the performance boost. However, the high prices of accessories are still causing frustration for many users. Luckily, a YouTuber has discovered a more affordable alternative for one of these accessories, specifically the Switch 2 Camera, by using a device that most people already have at home: a smartphone.

Using Your Smartphone as a Webcam

In a recent video from the YouTube channel ‘Will It Work?’, they demonstrated how an iPhone can be turned into a webcam for the GameChat feature of the Switch 2. The Nintendo Switch 2 is compatible with standard webcams that operate on UVC, or Universal Video Class. This is also supported by budget-friendly video capture cables, leading to a viable substitute for the camera accessory. These adapters typically feature USB Type-C connectors on one end and an HDMI female port on the other.

Steps to Connect

By employing a USB Type-C to HDMI cable along with a video capture adapter, the YouTuber managed to connect their iPhone to the Switch 2, which quickly displayed a ‘Camera connected’ message on the device. It’s important to note that a webcam app must be active on the smartphone for this to work properly.

While there is a slight delay in the camera feed, Nintendo has mentioned in the past that they’ve focused more on gaming performance rather than camera quality. Nevertheless, with a relatively low-cost set of cables (no need for fancy brands) and a smartphone, users can now replace what would have otherwise cost $55 for the accessory. The YouTuber also mentioned that Android devices that support video over USB-C to HDMI should function just as well.

Good News for Gamers

This is certainly encouraging news for gamers looking to complete the Welcome Tour tech demo, as it requires the USB C camera accessory for the Switch 2 along with a 4K display.

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