Music and pics coming to next-gen Nintendo DS

Handheld console fans drool

Nintendo has developed a new, feature-laden DS handheld console, according to a Japanese newspaper.

A report by Nikki Net stated that the latest model will sport an internal camera, music player and a larger screen. Improved wireless functionality was also mentioned.

A reference was made to using the console’s camera to play games, and there’s a possibility that a memory card slot will also be included for moving data between the handheld device and, say, the Wii.

The latest model hasn’t received a name yet, but the report also mentioned that Nintendo may unleash the new DS in Japan sometime before Christmas. It’s worth noting that the company already has a press conference scheduled for 2 October – the same day that Nokia’s Tube could be unveiled on.

It’s thought that the new DS will cost somewhere in the region of ¥20,000 (£105/$188/€130). A DS Lite already costs about ¥17,000 (£89/$160/€112) in Japan, suggesting the new version will be a 'premium' model.