14 DAY TRIAL // A couple of days ago, the Japanese website Nikkei Net announced that Nintendo would release during the holiday season a new version of their very successful handheld console, the DS. Not just any ordinary version, like the DS Lite, but one with a built-in camera and the possibility of music playback. Also, improved wireless capabilities are cited to be among the features of this version. All in all, the improvements could mean that Nintendo is taking its small console to new grounds, exploring things that haven't been done in the history of the company.
Although nothing is official, this move could make a lot of sense. The DS, after a very long period of record breaking sales, is currently seeing its market share decrease in favor of Sony's PlayStation Portable. Although the number of 77 million units sold is very impressive, Nintendo seeks to dominate the gaming market again, albeit the casual one, and with these improvements, it might just get the edge on the PSP. Also, Nikkei reported that the new version would start selling in Japan for prices below 20,000 yen. As reference, the DS Lite is currently going for 16,800 yen.
Yesterday, Nintendo came forward with a slightly awkward statement regarding these rumors. “We are always developing new products. However, since nothing has been announced officially, we are unable to comment at this time.” Although that is pretty much like a No Comment, it isn't a complete denial of them. It looks like we're going to have to wait for a press conference to get the full details on the presumed new version.
Things are starting to heat up before this holiday season, with handheld consoles getting more and more attractive. Not only are the current DS and PlayStation Portable the only major players on the market, but Apple is gaining momentum with the iPhone and iPod Touch products which support games. In this battle, the only certain winner will be the gamer, who will benefit from high quality products.