We are accustomed to the interoperability of various portable devices like smartphones and smartwatches. However, the Nintendo Switch Joy-Con controllers offer a less conventional, yet highly useful, form of device integration: controlling your smartphone’s camera. This feature comes as a boon to those who struggle with timing group photos using the camera’s built-in timer. Let’s delve into the specifics of how this works.

The Background: Nintendo Switch’s Bluetooth Capabilities

Nintendo Switch expanded its Bluetooth audio features to support headphones in September 2021. Even before this addition, the system was capable of other Bluetooth functionalities, as showcased by a Reddit user named Byotan. According to the clip shared by Byotan, a single Joy-Con can activate an Android phone’s camera shutter from a distance.

Preliminary Steps: Android Bluetooth Settings

To begin the setup, you first need to navigate to the Bluetooth settings on your Android smartphone.

  1. Open your Android smartphone’s Bluetooth settings.
  2. Press the Sync button on your Joy-Con, situated between the SL and SR buttons. You will notice the player indicator toggling between player one and player four, signifying that the Joy-Con is searching for a device to connect via Bluetooth.
  3. Look for either “Joy-Con R” or “Joy-Con L” under the Available Devices list on your smartphone. Tap on it to initiate automatic pairing. If you want to connect both Joy-Cons, repeat these steps for the second controller.

Activation and Control: Interfacing with Your Smartphone Camera

Once your Joy-Con is connected to your Android phone via Bluetooth, you can now control the camera application.

  1. Open your smartphone’s camera app.
  2. If you are using a Samsung Galaxy smartphone, pressing up on the D-Pad (on the left Joy-Con) or the A or B buttons (on the right Joy-Con) will capture a photo. Alternatively, pressing down on the D-Pad or the X button will close the camera app.

Device-Specific Functionalities and Advanced Use

It’s worth noting that the exact buttons used for controlling the camera may vary depending on the Android device you own. For instance, pressing the A button on the right Joy-Con will capture a photo if you are using a Pixel phone. It is advisable to set up your camera settings in the app beforehand. This will enable you to have a more tailored experience when using the Joy-Con to take photos.

The Joy-Cons themselves are sophisticated controllers with movement-tracking features, making them well-suited for this role.

Conclusion: Uncover More with Your Joy-Con Controller

The utility of Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons extends beyond the gaming realm, offering a handy solution for capturing photographs remotely via your Android smartphone. While the functionality may be little-known, its practicality is evident, particularly for group photos or selfies where precise timing is essential.

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