With Apple recently re-positioning its iPod touch, and to a lesser extent iPhone, as a portable gaming device, in addition to media playback and Internet functionality, it would make some sense for Nintendo to move the other way with its DS handheld games console. And that’s exactly what might be about to happen.

According to Japanese newspaper Nikkei, an upgraded version of the device sporting a built-in camera, larger screen, improved WiFi, and perhaps most significantly, music playback features, could be unveiled as early as Thursday.

It’s suggested that the inclusion of a camera would be utilized in new gaming experiences - think Sony’s EyeToy - while improved WiFi access could pave the way for a much better out-of-the-box web browsing experience. However, its an emphasis on music - and possibly video - playback that would raise the most eyebrows (including those in Cupertino) since it would mark a significant departure from Nintendo’s single-minded focus on gaming, and gaming alone, compared to competitors Microsoft, Sony and Apple.

(via The Register)

Other posts that may be of interest

• Taking aim at Apple and Sony, Nintendo announces new DSi portable media device
• Nintendo: everybody’s a gamer
• Nintendo launches DS Lite video download service in Japan
• Wii Media Center?
• What if Apple re-enters the console gaming market through the iPhone?
• Web browser for Nintendo DS hits US shores

This entry was posted on Monday, September 29th, 2008 at 2:44 pm and is filed under Audio, Mobile. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.