Iwata Alludes to DS as Multi-Functional Device

DS To Go Multimedia?

Posted by Staff
Iwata Alludes to DS as Multi-Functional Device
Nintendo may attempt to increase the functionality of the DS to prolong its lifespan.

When asked about the lifespan of the DS during his report on Nintendo's financials last week Nintendo's president, Satoru Iwata, said:

“In the case of DS, we have yet to hit a 20 million installed base here, but when any software can run on this many hardware based upon a single architecture, I believe that platform will take on a completely different value. So, Nintendo is always working to prolong the lifespan of our existing platforms by exploring a variety of different proposals which create a lot of challenges for us. If we can succeed in these challenges, and if people will start saying, "I did not imagine that Nintendo DS would be used for this purpose" or "You should definitely bring your DS for this occasion because it will make a big difference," DS may enjoy a longer life, and we will continue our efforts to make that happen.”


His comments are vague, but the DS could potentially be used for a number of extra-curricular functions. Nintendo is known for nothing if not innovation, after all.

MP3 and video playback are already available - however, the microphone and Wi-Fi connection could allow for telephony. Similarly, a camera peripheral a la Go!Cam for the PSP isn't beyond the realms of feasibility, and PDA software could be employed, although it would be limited by the DS only having one touch-screen.

All the above, of course, sounds more like the realm of Sony and Microsoft than it does Nintendo, which has always focussed more purely on gaming than the other two platform holders. Has Nintendo been secretly plotting to storm the world of handheld multimedia since the DS's conception? If Nintendo suddenly announced that the DS could cook your tea would you go for it? Answers in the Forum, please.
Companies:
People:

Comments

Joji 4 May 2007 18:02
1/5
Perhaps they should think about implementing Skype onto DS, via the Nintendo headset, (wi-fi or DS wi-fi usb dongle) DS mic and a card of Skype software.

This would be very cool, because it would kill expensive phonecalls overnight. Since the DS can already do its thing on the net via Opera, Skype would be a good addition. It would also turn Skype into somethnig more via all the exposure.
Happydwarf 4 May 2007 18:48
2/5
I'm sure i heard about a buy out with palm a long while ago. The only thing i can find now is This. Personally i think this would be a really good way to go for nintendo, i still use my old palm M505 for day to day use. If i could use my lovely DS lite i'd be over the moon. Oh and i'm sure nintendo took out a patent for V-pocket a year or so ago so (i'll get back to you with a link) so fingers crossed :>
more comments below our sponsor's message
Mr Chalk 5 May 2007 16:51
3/5
Another good thing would maybe be e books.....give us cartridges that can store downloads , make book available online for a pittance ...20 million user base. IT PRINTS MONEY!

Moschops 7 May 2007 07:29
4/5
didnt spong once suggest ds would become a jumped up pda?
ozfunghi 7 May 2007 11:31
5/5
PDA, eBook, Linux, movieplayer, MP3... get a M3 Simply card and you have all of that. You don't NEED to download illegally copied software to use that card.

They also released a TV antenna for DS in Japan... useless i say, but...

WHERE IS THAT F**KING GPS AD-ON!!!!????
Posting of new comments is now locked for this page.