Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Nintendo 3DS hits 5 million units faster than DS, the world goes 'huh?']]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/20/nintendo-3ds-hits-5-million-units-faster-than-ds-the-world-goes/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/20/nintendo-3ds-hits-5-million-units-faster-than-ds-the-world-goes/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/20/nintendo-3ds-hits-5-million-units-faster-than-ds-the-world-goes/#comments

While it had a rocky moment in the middle, some heavy price-cutting and top-drawer games helped the system sell five million within a year in its native homeland. According to Nintendo, these are legitimate sell-through figures and as predicted, make the 3D-capable console Nintendo's fastest selling console to date. You can take a look at some (translated) self-congratulatory backslapping from Nintendo below.

Continue reading Nintendo 3DS hits 5 million units faster than DS, the world goes 'huh?'

Nintendo 3DS hits 5 million units faster than DS, the world goes 'huh?' originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Feb 2012 15:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>figuresgaminghandheldhandheld consolehandheld gamingHandheldConsoleHandheldGamingJapanJapanese SalesJapaneseSalesNintendoNintendo 3dsNintendo3dsnumberssalesstatisticsstatsMon, 20 Feb 2012 15:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Canadian gets PlayStation Vita early thanks to faith, good works]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/10/canadian-gets-playstation-vita-early-thanks-to-faith-good-works/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/10/canadian-gets-playstation-vita-early-thanks-to-faith-good-works/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/10/canadian-gets-playstation-vita-early-thanks-to-faith-good-works/#comments Today's lucky beggar award goes to Graham Innes in Canada, who wrote in to tell us that he found a PlayStation Vita sitting on his doorstep. It wasn't a total surprise, since he'd ordered one from Amazon, but what's weird is just how soon it arrived -- the early-bird First Edition doesn't launch until February 15th and the general release is a whole week after that. We're not sure what Graham did to deserve this, but we do know from our Joystiq buddies that he's not the only one -- Amazon.ca has apparently sent out a few of these premature parcels. If the injustice burns, console yourself with the thought that Graham and his blessed compatriots probably can't access the store to download any games.

Update: Graham emailed again. He has store access. He has games. Joyousness.

Canadian gets PlayStation Vita early thanks to faith, good works originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 07:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonamazon.cacanadaearlyearly-birdgames consoleGamesConsolegraham innesGrahamInneshandheldNGPplaystation vitaPlaystationVitaps vitaPSPPsVitasonysony playstation vitasony ps vitaSonyPlaystationVitaSonyPsVitavitaFri, 10 Feb 2012 07:24:00 EST<![CDATA[SNK's new Neo Geo: 20 retro classics in one modern handheld]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/25/snks-new-neo-geo-20-retro-classics-in-one-modern-handheld/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/25/snks-new-neo-geo-20-retro-classics-in-one-modern-handheld/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/25/snks-new-neo-geo-20-retro-classics-in-one-modern-handheld/#comments We rubbed our eyes a little when they first landed on this fine looking specimen, just to make sure they weren't deceiving us. But no, this really does appear to be a new handheld Neo Geo. We've seen SNK make inspired controllers, bring its catalog to other platforms and even make handhelds before, but nothing like this. The iPhone-esque body and 4.3 inch screen house a D-pad, shoulder and front buttons while hiding 2GB of storage inside -- pre-loaded with 20 classic titles (yes Fatal Fury and League Bowling included, and all in English). There's also an SD slot which we really really hope is for more games, as well as an AV output for some good old big-screen action. Famicon Plaza claims it's a licensed product not yet in full production, so there's no whiff of availability just now. When it does finally land, we hope it's not at a 2012 equivalent of grandad's $600+ price tag.

Gallery: SNK Neo Geo portable

SNK's new Neo Geo: 20 retro classics in one modern handheld originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 25 Jan 2012 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classicsfatal furyFatalFurygamesgaminghand heldHandHeldjapanneo geoneo geo portableNeoGeoNeoGeoPortableportableretrosnkWed, 25 Jan 2012 10:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Pandora handheld approaches full production next month, never gave up hope]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/25/pandora-handheld-approaches-full-production-next-month-never-ga/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/25/pandora-handheld-approaches-full-production-next-month-never-ga/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/25/pandora-handheld-approaches-full-production-next-month-never-ga/#comments Pandora handheld approaches full production next month, never gave up hope

Remember the Pandora? Back when the likes of the PS Vita and the Nintendo 3DS remained conceptual sketches in top secret bunkers, this open-source handheld paired up a clamshell form factor with analogue game controls, a QWERTY keyboard and a dream. It's been a slow-burning dream; last time we heard from the OpenPandora project, it had managed a limited (premium-priced) run, with manufacturing hobbled by problems. But, like its namesake, there was always hope and fans of the platform ponied up around half a million euros to bring the four-year-old project back to life. It's now set to go into full production next month with a new manufacturer, but unfortunately the same specs. While the 4.3-inch 800 x 480 touchscreen sparkled a few years earlier, it's now being supplanted by what we're getting on our smartphones. However, those tempted by an open source OS, a battery life of over ten hours and a very faithful fanbase, can stake their claim to one at the source below. We've got our fingers crossed for you.

Update: The creators got in touch to add that these incoming Pandoras will have 512MB of RAM, and a revised verions of the OMAP3. The processor can also be overclocked to 800MHz -- apparently enough to run PSX titles, emulator fans.

Pandora handheld approaches full production next month, never gave up hope originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 25 Jan 2012 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gaminggaming handheldGamingHandheldGP2Xhandheldopen pandoraopen sourceopen-sourceOpenPandoraOpenSourcepandorapandora handheldPandoraHandheldproductionWed, 25 Jan 2012 09:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Theatrhythm Final Fantasy box points to first paid DLC for Nintendo 3DS]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/22/theatrhythm-final-fantasy-box-first-paid-dlc-for-nintendo-3ds/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/22/theatrhythm-final-fantasy-box-first-paid-dlc-for-nintendo-3ds/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/22/theatrhythm-final-fantasy-box-first-paid-dlc-for-nintendo-3ds/#comments3DS owners have been waiting (and waiting) for a chance to take advantage of a downloadable content market, and while Nintendo already accomplished the tough part (read: launching it) a few days back, there's still been no word on when paid content would make an appearance. Pushing those freebies aside is Theatrhythm Final Fantasy, which is seemingly destined to be the first 3DS title in existence to offer up enhancements in exchange for a few yen. The box here is actually an "early retail dummy unit," though the verbiage on the back makes quite clear that downloadable material will be available at a cost. Furthermore, there's a heretofore unseen Nintendo Network badge on the front, which may be a new look for the existing Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection. At any rate, the game is scheduled to ship on February 16th in Japan, after which all of this will-it-won't-it drama will presumably be cleared up.

Theatrhythm Final Fantasy box points to first paid DLC for Nintendo 3DS originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 22 Jan 2012 23:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdlcdownloadable contentDownloadableContentFinal FantasyFinalFantasygaminghandheldhandheld gamingHandheldGamingjapanjapanesenintendonintendo 3dsnintendo networkNintendo3dsNintendoNetworkpaidpaid dlcPaidDlcportable gamingPortableGamingstoreTheatrhythmTheatrhythm Final FantasyTheatrhythmFinalFantasySun, 22 Jan 2012 23:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Kid Icarus: Uprising flies too close to the 3DS, gets bundled with a stand]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/13/kid-icarus-uprising-flies-too-close-to-the-3ds-gets-bundled-wi/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/13/kid-icarus-uprising-flies-too-close-to-the-3ds-gets-bundled-wi/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/13/kid-icarus-uprising-flies-too-close-to-the-3ds-gets-bundled-wi/#comments D'ya know what'd make up for a nineteen-year wait? Well, Project Sora thinks the answer is a plastic peripheral. Yes the long, long awaited Kid Icarus: Uprising looks like it'll be bundled with an official "Nintendo 3DS Stand," according to a tweet by the game's maker. It's no doubt a practical addition, as those analog-plus-touchscreen controls look like they'd make your arms tired -- which is probably what got Icarus in trouble in the first place. No word on price for the goods at this time or even if it'll travel across the pacific, but we're keeping our primary feathers crossed.

Update: We've gotten word that the stand will only be available in the bundle, at least for now. We'll let you know if we hear otherwise, but don't hold your breath for a standalone purchase option.

Kid Icarus: Uprising flies too close to the 3DS, gets bundled with a stand originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 13 Jan 2012 00:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsaccessoriesAccessorybundlegaminghandheldKid IcarusKid Icarus: UprisingKidIcarusKidIcarus:Uprisingminipostnintendonintendo 3dsnintendo 3ds standNintendo3dsNintendo3dsStandperipheralsstandFri, 13 Jan 2012 00:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo sold four million 3DS consoles, 4.5 million Wiis in US last year]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/03/nintendo-sells-four-million-3ds-consoles-4-5-million-wiis-in-us/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/03/nintendo-sells-four-million-3ds-consoles-4-5-million-wiis-in-us/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/03/nintendo-sells-four-million-3ds-consoles-4-5-million-wiis-in-us/#comments We've been (somewhat) taken with Nintendo's dual-screen handheld's 3D screen, AR features and overall unique experience, but it appears that the 3DS has been a real boon to gamers, with more than four million U.S. consumers picking up the console since it hit stores in March of last year. 3DS games like Super Mario 3D Land and Mario Kart 7, which sold more than one million units each in the US alone, were also incredibly popular, along with the aging Wii, which made its way to 4.5 million additional U.S. households in 2011. All told, Nintendo sold more than 12 million consoles stateside last year, and has solid hopes for an equally successful 2012. As always, you can get your fill of warm and fuzzy PR magic just past the break.

Continue reading Nintendo sold four million 3DS consoles, 4.5 million Wiis in US last year

Nintendo sold four million 3DS consoles, 4.5 million Wiis in US last year originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 03 Jan 2012 09:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsconsoleconsolesgame consolegame consolesGameConsoleGameConsolesgaminggaming consolegaming consolesGamingConsoleGamingConsoleshandheldhandheldsnintendonintendo 3dsnintendo wiiNintendo3dsNintendoWiiportable gamingPortableGamingwiiTue, 03 Jan 2012 09:26:00 EST<![CDATA[The morning after: PlayStation Vita sales go cold during first full week in Japan]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/29/the-morning-after-playstation-vita-sales-go-cold-during-first-f/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/29/the-morning-after-playstation-vita-sales-go-cold-during-first-f/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/29/the-morning-after-playstation-vita-sales-go-cold-during-first-f/#comments It's hard to set much store by early sales performance, particularly after the evergreen 3DS faced such a rocky road. Nevertheless, the Vita's latest stats do look disappointing for such a highly anticipated -- not to mention high-quality -- console: after shifting a remarkable 321,000 units during its first two days on sale in Japan, it could only muster 72,500 in the whole week between December 19th and Christmas Day. In comparison, the PS3 sold 76,000 units during the same period, while the 3DS rang up half a million. This doesn't necessarily reflect a lack of interest, however: there have been stock shortages, and it's also possible that buyers are waiting to make sure that all the launch bugs get cleaned up. As for us, our alarms remain firmly set for February 22nd.

The morning after: PlayStation Vita sales go cold during first full week in Japan originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 29 Dec 2011 11:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consolegames consoleGamesConsolegaminggaming consoleGamingConsolehandheldJapanngpPlayStation VitaPlaystationVitaportableportable gamingPortableGamingPS VitaPsVitasalesVitaThu, 29 Dec 2011 11:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo introduces paid DLC, lets you complete the games you completed]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/27/nintendo-introduces-paid-dlc-lets-you-complete-the-games-you-co/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/27/nintendo-introduces-paid-dlc-lets-you-complete-the-games-you-co/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/27/nintendo-introduces-paid-dlc-lets-you-complete-the-games-you-co/#comments Did you get a Nintendo shaped bundle of joy for Christmas? Completed the games already? Fear not, as from March Kyoto's gaming veterans will be launching paid downloadable game content for its 3D handheld. The first title to get the goodies will be Fire Emblem, and as yet, there's no clues about what treats you'll get for the reported "several hundred yen" you'll be asked to stump up. Nintendo, however, is understandably keen to stimulate interest in its 3D titles, and more importantly, claw back some of that mobile gaming market-share. With hints of downloadable add-ons coming to the Wii-U also, and Mr. Iwata's previous commitment to deliver the goods, it clearly thinks this is the way to go -- let's just hope all the kinks have been ironed out come release day.

Nintendo introduces paid DLC, lets you complete the games you completed originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 27 Dec 2011 20:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dscontentDLCdownloadabledownloadable contentDownloadableContentfire emblemFireEmblemgamergaminghandheldhandheld gamingHandheldGamingkyotonintendonintendo 3dsNintendo3dsTue, 27 Dec 2011 20:25:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation Vita's North American launch details: 25 games, $10 to $50 apiece]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/22/playstation-vitas-north-american-launch-details-25-games-10/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/22/playstation-vitas-north-american-launch-details-25-games-10/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/22/playstation-vitas-north-american-launch-details-25-games-10/#comments Already pondering that long-awaited trip to Japan in order to snag a PlayStation Vita in advance? Hold your horses, vaquero. Sony has just given anxious US and Canadian gamers reason to look forward to a launch of their own by laying out the official software plan for 2012. We're told that February 22nd will be the day to remember, with a total of 25 titles being available alongside the console. In fact, the company's calling this "the biggest and best lineup [it has] ever launched across the history of PlayStation platforms." Over 100 titles are in development, with the 25 shipping on day one being priced between $9.99 and $49.99; moreover, each one will be available for purchase at retail locations as well as downloadable on the PlayStation Network. Hit the source link below for the full spiel, and keep your eyes peeled for pre-orders to go live in the coming weeks.

PlayStation Vita's North American launch details: 25 games, $10 to $50 apiece originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Dec 2011 15:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gaminghandheldhandheld gamingHandheldGaminglaunchplaystationPlayStation VitaPlaystationVitaportable gamingPortableGamingpsps vitaPsVitasonyvitaThu, 22 Dec 2011 15:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo's 3DS slide pad gets unboxed in Japan, reveals massive 480 hour battery life]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/11/nintendos-3ds-slide-pad-gets-unboxed-in-japan-reveals-massive/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/11/nintendos-3ds-slide-pad-gets-unboxed-in-japan-reveals-massive/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/11/nintendos-3ds-slide-pad-gets-unboxed-in-japan-reveals-massive/#comments
Now that Nintendo's 3DS slide pad is hitting shelves in Japan, it appears that Mr. Blurrycam managed to get in on one owner's early unboxing. Glance at the contents strewn about above and you'll notice what looks to be a copy of Monster Hunter, the secondary joystick-adding peripheral itself and an included wrist strap. According to Andriasang, the owner reports that the add-on is stated to last a whopping 480 hours on its single AAA battery (for the unit itself), which makes the thought of dealing with its screw-secured compartment sting a bit less. Folks in the US will still have to wait until February 7th to experience the slide pad for themselves, but in the meantime, you can hit the source links below for more insight.

Nintendo's 3DS slide pad gets unboxed in Japan, reveals massive 480 hour battery life originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 11 Dec 2011 10:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsadd-onbatterycircle padcircle pad proCirclePadCirclePadProgaminghandheldjapannintendonintendo 3dsNintendo3dsperipheralportableportable gamingPortableGamingslide padSlidePadunboxingvideogamesSun, 11 Dec 2011 10:21:00 EST<![CDATA[EFO turns its BlackBerry-like iPazzPort into a Skype handset (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/01/efo-turns-its-blackberry-like-ipazzport-into-a-skype-handset-vi/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/01/efo-turns-its-blackberry-like-ipazzport-into-a-skype-handset-vi/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/01/efo-turns-its-blackberry-like-ipazzport-into-a-skype-handset-vi/#comments iPazzPort We know what you've been thinking: "this iPazzPort is pretty sweet, but I wish I could talk into it." Well, for those of you who can't be bothered with owning an actual BlackBerry, EFO has added a microphone and speaker to its handheld keyboard and touchpad. Now, after you're done banging out a few emails you can use the iPazzPort as a Skype handset. EFO even claims the device is perfect for the "youngster" who we know is "always download[ing] music or songs for Karaoke." If you really need to know what else you're getting for your $50 hit up the source link and check out the video after the break.

Continue reading EFO turns its BlackBerry-like iPazzPort into a Skype handset (video)

EFO turns its BlackBerry-like iPazzPort into a Skype handset (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 01 Dec 2011 19:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>efoefo ipazzportEfoIpazzporthandheldhandsetiPazzPortkeyboardminipostskypeskype handsetSkypeHandsettouchpadvideoThu, 01 Dec 2011 19:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony updates PS3 to version 4.00 ahead of PS Vita launch]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/30/sony-releases-ps3-4-00-update-ahead-of-ps-vitas-japan-release/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/30/sony-releases-ps3-4-00-update-ahead-of-ps-vitas-japan-release/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/30/sony-releases-ps3-4-00-update-ahead-of-ps-vitas-japan-release/#comments Sony is setting the table for the PlayStation Vita today, with the release of a new PS3 update. With version 4.00, rolling out now, PS3 users will be able to share content like music, video and images with the forthcoming Vita, scheduled to launch in Japan on December 17th. The refresh also allows gamers to save PS Vita games and data on their PS3 hard drives, while updating their handheld software using the PS3's network. There are some more PS3-specific features, as well, including enhanced PSN privacy settings and game patches, among others. Find out more at the source link below.

Sony updates PS3 to version 4.00 ahead of PS Vita launch originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 30 Nov 2011 05:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>back upBackUpdatagamehandheldmusicplaystationPlaystation 3playstation vitaPlaystation3PlaystationVitaPSNsoftwaresoftware updateSoftwareUpdatesonysony playstation 3sony playstation vitaSonyPlaystation3SonyPlaystationVitaupdateversion 4.00Version4.00videoWed, 30 Nov 2011 05:30:00 EST<![CDATA[SMK-Link releases Wireless Ultra-Mini Touchpad Keyboard for your inner sloth]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/18/smk-link-releases-wireless-ultra-mini-touchpad-keyboard-for-your/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/18/smk-link-releases-wireless-ultra-mini-touchpad-keyboard-for-your/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/18/smk-link-releases-wireless-ultra-mini-touchpad-keyboard-for-your/#comments
Exerting energy goes against the very fiber of our 21st century ethos -- which is why SMK-Link has come out with the Wireless Ultra-Mini Touchpad Keyboard. Available in both Mac- and PC-compatible versions, this little handheld allows users to surf the web, send texts, or control their home entertainment systems from up to 30 feet away. Featuring both a raised QWERTY keyboard and capacitive touchpad, SMK-Link's latest battery-powered creation boasts 20 function keys, seven hot keys and a dedicated Windows Media Center Start button (on the PC version, naturally). And, since it doesn't require any software drivers, all you have to do is plug in the RF receiver, sit back, and marinate your afternoon away. You can grab one now for $69 at the source link, below. Otherwise, swerve past the break for a drop of PR.

Continue reading SMK-Link releases Wireless Ultra-Mini Touchpad Keyboard for your inner sloth

SMK-Link releases Wireless Ultra-Mini Touchpad Keyboard for your inner sloth originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 18 Nov 2011 18:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>availabilitycapacitivehandheldhome entertainmentHomeEntertainmenthotkeykeyboardMacPCperipheralpriceqwertyrangeSMK LinkSmkLinktouchpadwindows media centerWindowsMediaCenterwirelesswireless ultra-mini touchpad keyboardWirelessUltra-miniTouchpadKeyboardFri, 18 Nov 2011 18:47:00 EST<![CDATA[3DS to beat out original DS' first year sales, land killing blow during holiday season]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/12/3ds-to-beat-out-original-ds-first-year-sales-land-killing-blow/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/12/3ds-to-beat-out-original-ds-first-year-sales-land-killing-blow/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/12/3ds-to-beat-out-original-ds-first-year-sales-land-killing-blow/#comments First 3DS sales were great, then not so much, and now things seem to be evening out somewhere around "normal." According to numbers released by Nintendo, the fledgling handheld is poised to break the original DS' first year sales numbers -- closing out its 8th month with 1.65 million units sold, or roughly 69 percent of its predecessor's 2.37 million first year sales. Noting that half of the old DS' year one sales were made during the holiday season, Nintendo is confident the 3DS will surpass its predecessor's numbers before hitting the one year mark. We'll let you make your own predictions -- Nintendo's press release is after the break, if you want to compare notes.

Continue reading 3DS to beat out original DS' first year sales, land killing blow during holiday season

3DS to beat out original DS' first year sales, land killing blow during holiday season originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 12 Nov 2011 11:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>figuresgaminghandheldhandheld consolehandheld gamingHandheldConsoleHandheldGamingJapanese SalesJapaneseSalesNintendoNintendo 3dsnintendo of americaNintendo3dsNintendoOfAmericanumberssalesstatisticsstatsSat, 12 Nov 2011 11:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo's eShop plans: premium DLC, game demos, smartphone shopping, relevancy]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/28/nintendos-eshop-plans-premium-dlc-game-demos-smartphone-shop/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/28/nintendos-eshop-plans-premium-dlc-game-demos-smartphone-shop/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/28/nintendos-eshop-plans-premium-dlc-game-demos-smartphone-shop/#comments Nintendo's latest earnings report may be a litany of woe, but at least the outfit's semi-annual financial results briefing bore good news: the 3DS eShop is about to get a kick in the pants. Today's 3DS store gets the job done, but it's hampered by disorganized categories, limited accessibility, and poor download management. Want something better? It's on the way -- a late November update is slated to bring "sleep mode" background downloading to the fledgling console, and opens the door for publishers to release in-game premium DLC and "limited-play" demos. Nintendo is even taking steps to address the handheld's lousy shopping experience, announcing a companion website where users will be able to browse the eShop from a PC or smartphone. Eventually 3DS owners will be able to buy content directly from the eShop website, but at launch shoppers will need to scan a QR code with the handheld to make a purchase. It's not a perfect plan, but at least it's a start. Baby steps Nintendo, baby steps.

Nintendo's eShop plans: premium DLC, game demos, smartphone shopping, relevancy originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 28 Oct 2011 19:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsDLCeShopfirmwarefirmware updateFirmwareUpdategaminghand heldhand held consoleHandHeldHandHeldConsoleinternet browserInternetBrowsernintendoQR codeQrCodesoftwaresoftware updateSoftwareUpdatesystem updateSystemUpdateweb browserWebBrowserwebstoreFri, 28 Oct 2011 19:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony PS Vita First Edition Bundle up for pre-order, lets North American buyers snag it one week early]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/27/sony-ps-vita-first-edition-bundle-up-for-pre-order-lets-us-buye/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/27/sony-ps-vita-first-edition-bundle-up-for-pre-order-lets-us-buye/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/27/sony-ps-vita-first-edition-bundle-up-for-pre-order-lets-us-buye/#comments
The United States may not be getting the PS Vita at first, but that doesn't mean you can't be the first kid on your block to own one. Sony took to its US PlayStation Blog today, unveiling its First Edition bundle of the portable gaming powerhouse, which is up for pre-order now at "select retailers." US buyers will receive a 3G + WiFi Vita with a limited edition case, a 4GB memory card and a copy of Little Deviants for $350, while Canadian buyers will get the WiFi-only variant for $299 -- better yet, it'll arrive at your doorstep one week prior to the 02/22/2012 release date for North America. Sure, it may not have wishful goodies like pro bono AT&T 3G, but if you've just gotta have it, well, them's the breaks, y'all. You'll find more info at the source link below, or at Amazon where we've already spotted it.

Sony PS Vita First Edition Bundle up for pre-order, lets North American buyers snag it one week early originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 27 Oct 2011 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3G512 MB512MbattAtt 3GAtt3gchatconsolecross-gamecross-game chatcross-game voice chatCross-gameChatCross-gameVoiceChatDisplaygamergameshandheldlaunchplaystation vitaPlaystation Vita First Edition BundlePlaystationVitaPlaystationVitaFirstEditionBundleps vitaps vita 3gPS Vita First Edition BundlePsVitaPsVita3gPsVitaFirstEditionBundleramsonysony playstation vitaSonyPlaystationVitaThu, 27 Oct 2011 13:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo DSi XL bundles land on November 6th, just in time for the holidays]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/26/nintendo-dsi-xl-bundles-land-on-november-6th-just-time-for-the/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/26/nintendo-dsi-xl-bundles-land-on-november-6th-just-time-for-the/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/26/nintendo-dsi-xl-bundles-land-on-november-6th-just-time-for-the/#comments Looking to spring for a new handheld gaming system this Christmas? The Big N is doing its darndest to nudge you in that direction with a new spin on the Metallic Rose and Midnight Blue versions of the DSi XL. Both painted handhelds will be available in bundles alongside Mario vs. Donkey Kong: Mini-Land Mayhem!. These will set you back $170 a pop for each package deal, and you've got about a week to search the couch cushions for spare coin. You know, just in case the Mini-land ruckus can't wait for Santa's delivery.

Continue reading Nintendo DSi XL bundles land on November 6th, just in time for the holidays

Nintendo DSi XL bundles land on November 6th, just in time for the holidays originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 26 Oct 2011 02:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Donkey KongDonkeyKongdsidsi xlDsiXlhandheldhandheldsmariomini-land mayhemMini-landMayhemminipostnintendoNintendo DSNintendo DSi XLnintendo dsi xl colorsNintendoDsNintendoDsiXlNintendoDsiXlColorswifiWed, 26 Oct 2011 02:14:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation Vita is coming February 22nd, start saving now]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/18/playstation-vita-is-coming-february-22nd-start-saving-now/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/18/playstation-vita-is-coming-february-22nd-start-saving-now/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/18/playstation-vita-is-coming-february-22nd-start-saving-now/#comments
Well folks, the wait is over. Sony has announced that the PlayStation Vita will be hitting shelves February 22nd at retailers in the US, Canada, Latin America and Europe. In addition to all your favorite gaming titles and a pocket filled with 512MB of RAM, you'll be able to chat it up with your fellow assassins cross-game or via Facebook, Foursquare, Skype and Twitter. If that's not enough, the 5-inch OLED display, dual analog sticks, dual cameras, and front and rear touch panel should be enough get you amped for a Call of Duty campaign on the handheld device. Keep in mind: this bad boy will sport 3G from AT&T for $299 or you can snag the WiFi-only model for $249. If you're looking for more details, hit that source link below.

PlayStation Vita is coming February 22nd, start saving now originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 18 Oct 2011 20:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3G512 MB512Mbattchatconsolecross-gamecross-game chatcross-game voice chatCross-gameChatCross-gameVoiceChatDisplaygamergameshandheldlaunchplaystation vitaPlaystationVitaps vitaPsVitaramsonysony playstation vitaSonyPlaystationVitavitawifiwifi-onlyTue, 18 Oct 2011 20:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Kodak's Waterproof Playfull records your pool parties in 720p, lets you relive that belly flop]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/01/kodaks-waterproof-playfull-records-your-pool-parties-in-720p-l/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/01/kodaks-waterproof-playfull-records-your-pool-parties-in-720p-l/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/01/kodaks-waterproof-playfull-records-your-pool-parties-in-720p-l/#comments

Do you like to play rough? Good, then this Kodak's for you. Up for pre-order on the imaging company's website, is an update to the Playfull we got eyes-on with at CES earlier this year -- except this handheld camera's waterproof, as well as dustproof and drop-proof (although, only "onto plywood"). The slim 720p shooter weighs in at about 85 grams and sports a 2-inch LCD display, HDMI out, pop-out USB 2.0 and an SD card slot expandable up to 32GB. Kodak's offering this pocket and pool-friendly portable in mid to late October with a premium $120 price tag set for the black version, and the white at a lesser $100. If your high-end smartphone's just not cutting the HD-recording mustard, go ahead and hit up that source link below.

Kodak's Waterproof Playfull records your pool parties in 720p, lets you relive that belly flop originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 01 Oct 2011 07:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>720p720pCamcordercameracamerasDropProofdustproofhandheldHD videohd video recordingHdVideoHdVideoRecordingKodakKodak PlayfullKodak Playfull waterproofKodakPlayfullKodakPlayfullWaterproofplayboySat, 01 Oct 2011 07:17:00 EST<![CDATA[In case you didn't know, PS Vita will play nice with PSP in ad-hoc mode]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/21/in-case-you-didnt-know-ps-vita-will-play-nice-with-psp-in-ad-h/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/21/in-case-you-didnt-know-ps-vita-will-play-nice-with-psp-in-ad-h/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/21/in-case-you-didnt-know-ps-vita-will-play-nice-with-psp-in-ad-h/#comments
Check out this tasty morsel of PS Vita info making the rounds: you'll be able to face your PSP-totin' friends via ad-hoc mode with games you've snagged from the PS Store (so long as the title supports it). We must've been so enamored by those vibrant PS Vitas at TGS that we missed this sweet bite courtesy of Sony PlayStation Japan. Sure, it doesn't kill the sting of its three to five hour battery life, but hey, we'll just consider it another justification for picking up the hot little number once it hits shelves.

In case you didn't know, PS Vita will play nice with PSP in ad-hoc mode originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 21 Sep 2011 19:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ad-hocad-hoc gamesad-hoc gamingAd-hocGamesAd-hocGaminggaminghandheldjapanminipostplaystationplaystation portableplaystation vitaPlaystationPortablePlaystationVitaportable gamingPortableGamingPS VitapspPsVitasonyvideo gamesVideoGamesvitaWed, 21 Sep 2011 19:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo 3DS to add 3D video capture, upgraded eShop and more]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/12/nintendo-3ds-to-add-3d-video-capture-upgraded-eshop-and-more/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/12/nintendo-3ds-to-add-3d-video-capture-upgraded-eshop-and-more/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/12/nintendo-3ds-to-add-3d-video-capture-upgraded-eshop-and-more/#comments Satoru Iwata came on stage at Nintendo's pre-Tokyo Game Show shindig and announced the 3DS will be getting a few upgrades soon. No word on any hardware changes -- yet -- but owners can expect 3D video capture as well as upgrades to the Street Pass Mii Plaza and eShop. The press conference is still ongoing, so check back for more details as they're announced or watch the live video stream (in Japanese) embedded after the break.

Update: And it's all over! Nothing else new to speak of on the hardware front, and we didn't catch any more news about those software changes either. We're just getting our TGS team on the ground in Japan now, so expect more news in the days to come.

Nintendo 3DS to add 3D video capture, upgraded eShop and more originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 12 Sep 2011 23:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsbreaking newseshopeventgaminggaming handheldGamingHandheldhandheldjapanmii plazaMiiPlazanintendonintendo 3dsNintendo3dssatoru iwataSatoruIwatastreet passStreetPasstgstgs 2011Tgs2011tokyotokyo game showTokyoGameShowMon, 12 Sep 2011 23:36:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo launching 'Misty Pink' 3DS handheld on October 20th]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/12/nintendo-launching-pink-3ds-handheld-on-october-20th/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/12/nintendo-launching-pink-3ds-handheld-on-october-20th/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/12/nintendo-launching-pink-3ds-handheld-on-october-20th/#comments You heard right -- The Big N's own Satoru Iwata just announced that a "Misty Pink" Nintendo 3DS console would be shipping (at least in Japan) on October 20th. Funnily enough, that was just after showing a chart proving that right around half of all DS gamers are ladies. (But Iwata -- what if the dudes dig pink, too?) At any rate, no specific price was mentioned, giving us some level of certainty that no premium will be attached.

Gallery: Nintendo announces pink 3DS gaming handheld in Tokyo


Gallery: Nintendo 3DS Conference 2011

Nintendo launching 'Misty Pink' 3DS handheld on October 20th originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 12 Sep 2011 23:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsbreaking newseventfemalegaminggaming handheldGamingHandheldgirlhandheldiwatajapanladynintendonintendo 3dsNintendo3dspinkSatoru IwataSatoruIwatatgstgs 2011Tgs2011tokyotokyo game showTokyoGameShowMon, 12 Sep 2011 23:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo on price reduction: no glasses required to see 3DS sales boost]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/09/nintendo-on-price-reduction-no-glasses-required-to-see-3ds-sale/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/09/nintendo-on-price-reduction-no-glasses-required-to-see-3ds-sale/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/09/nintendo-on-price-reduction-no-glasses-required-to-see-3ds-sale/#comments The Big N has today confirmed our suspicions: people buy more things when they're cheaper, and in turn, the laws of economics are still sound. The longer version is after the break.

Continue reading Nintendo on price reduction: no glasses required to see 3DS sales boost

Nintendo on price reduction: no glasses required to see 3DS sales boost originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 09 Sep 2011 19:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsbusinessgaming handheldGamingHandheldhandheldindustrynintendonintendo 3dsNintendo3dspriceprice cutPriceCutpricingsalesFri, 09 Sep 2011 19:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Samsung announces Galaxy S WiFi 3.6 handheld]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/01/samsung-announces-galaxy-s-wifi-3-6-handheld/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/01/samsung-announces-galaxy-s-wifi-3-6-handheld/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/01/samsung-announces-galaxy-s-wifi-3-6-handheld/#comments
It got a bit overshadowed by the Galaxy Note and Galaxy Tab 7.7 earlier today, but Samsung also quietly introduced a new basic handheld / PMP at IFA: the Galaxy S WiFi 3.6. As you can probably surmise, it's a slightly smaller version of the Galaxy S WiFi 4.0 (also known as the Galaxy Player in the US), with it boasting a 3.6-inch HVGA display, Android 2.3, a 1GHz OMAP processor, 8GB or 16GB of storage, a microSD card slot, GPS, a mic for VoIP calls, and dual cameras (2 megapixels 'round back and VGA on the front). Unfortunately for those elsewhere, this one is only confirmed for the UK so far, where it will sell for £149 and £169 (or roughly $240 and $270) in early October.

Samsung announces Galaxy S WiFi 3.6 handheld originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 01 Sep 2011 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>galaxy sgalaxy s wifigalaxy s wifi 3.6galaxy wifi 3.6GalaxySGalaxySWifiGalaxySWifi3.6GalaxyWifi3.6handheldifaifa 2011Ifa2011media playerMediaPlayerpmpsamsungThu, 01 Sep 2011 16:01:00 EST<![CDATA[PS Vita to pack 512MB of RAM, support cross-game voice chat]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/19/ps-vita-to-pack-512mb-of-ram-support-cross-game-voice-chat/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/19/ps-vita-to-pack-512mb-of-ram-support-cross-game-voice-chat/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/19/ps-vita-to-pack-512mb-of-ram-support-cross-game-voice-chat/#comments
What's the difference between Sony's PlayStation Vita and the PS3? About 256MB of RAM, apparently. In a recent interview with Eurogamer, Sony Worldwide Studios president Shuhei Yoshida confirmed that the forthcoming handheld will boast a full 512MB of RAM (compared to the PS3's 256MB), allowing the Vita to support cross-game voice chat via its Party feature. Yoshida's confirmation effectively debunks earlier rumors that Sony would be halving the Vita's RAM, in order to compete with the 3DS' lower price, though the console does feature comparatively less V-RAM (just 128MB, versus the PS3's 256MB). According to the executive, however, that disparity won't make too much of a difference on the gaming experience, due to changes in the Vita's display resolution. "The resolution on the PS Vita screen is much lower," Yoshida said. "Even though it's four times the resolution of PSP, compared to the console, the amount of data you have to push is much smaller." The proof, of course, is in the pudding, but unfortunately, we probably won't be tasting it for a while.

PS Vita to pack 512MB of RAM, support cross-game voice chat originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 19 Aug 2011 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>256mb512 MB512MBchatconsolecross-gamecross-game chatcross-game voice chatCross-gameChatCross-gameVoiceChatdisplaygamegamerhandheldplaystationplaystation 3playstation vitaPlaystation3PlaystationVitaPS 3PS vitaPS3PsVitaRAMresolutionShuhei YoshidaShuheiYoshidasonyV-RAMFri, 19 Aug 2011 09:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Australia's first mobile network celebrates 30th birthday with a quiet night in]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/10/australias-first-mobile-network-celebrates-30th-birthday-with-a/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/10/australias-first-mobile-network-celebrates-30th-birthday-with-a/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/10/australias-first-mobile-network-celebrates-30th-birthday-with-a/#comments Why is this phone staring at the ground in dismay? Because it can't believe that it's been 30 years since it made history. On this day three decades ago, this 14 kilogram beast was used to place the very first call on Australia's very first mobile network -- the Public Automatic Telephone System, operated by Telstra (or Telecom, as it was known at the time). Back then, the network could only support 1,000 users at once and provide coverage for the greater Melbourne area (things have since changed for the better). The device, meanwhile, was known simply as The Mobile Phone and, in retrospect, wasn't all that mobile; the carphone system included a 45 centimeter handset, a transceiver and rooftop antenna -- all for a little over $5,000. It could also store a whopping 16 phone numbers and would notify users of incoming calls by sounding the car's horn and flashing its headlights. The Mobile Phone's Australian reign, however, would be relatively short-lived, with the DynaTAC 8000x ushering in a new handheld era, just two years after Telstra's inaugural call. Dial past the break for a Wagnerian commercial that'll tell you everything you always wanted to know about antiquity, but were too afraid to ask.

[Thanks, Vincent]

Continue reading Australia's first mobile network celebrates 30th birthday with a quiet night in

Australia's first mobile network celebrates 30th birthday with a quiet night in originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 10 Aug 2011 07:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1980s80sanniversaryantennaaustraliabirthdaycarcar phoneCarPhonehandheldhandsethistorymobilemobile networkMobileNetworkmoneynetworkoldphonepricepublic automatic telephone systemPublicAutomaticTelephoneSystemtelstrathe mobile phoneTheMobilePhonetransceiverWed, 10 Aug 2011 07:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo 3DS Panda dev model hits Canadian eBay, reminds US how little the dollar is worth]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/04/nintendo-3ds-panda-dev-model-hits-canadian-ebay-reminds-us-how/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/04/nintendo-3ds-panda-dev-model-hits-canadian-ebay-reminds-us-how/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/04/nintendo-3ds-panda-dev-model-hits-canadian-ebay-reminds-us-how/#comments Have $1,929 Canadian dollars to spare? You can swap those loonies for 2,000 all-American greenbacks, or the current bid on a Nintendo 3DS Panda development model, rounding out its final 24 hours on eBay's Canadian auction site. This "like new" device won't be playing retail 3DS or DS cartridges, but it will grant you access to a variety of development functions. The $2,000 current bid is more than a hair higher than the dev hardware's unconfirmed original price of $324, but if you're desperate to rank among the few gamers that rock 3DS dev hardware, logic probably won't reign supreme when it comes time to hit that bid now button.

[Thanks, Julien]

Nintendo 3DS Panda dev model hits Canadian eBay, reminds US how little the dollar is worth originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 04 Aug 2011 16:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsauctioncanadaconsoledevdev systemdeveloperdeveloper systemDeveloperSystemdevelopmentDevSystemebaygamegaming consolegaming handheldGamingConsoleGamingHandheldhandheldnintendonintendo 3dsNintendo3dsrareThu, 04 Aug 2011 16:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony PlayStation Vita clears the FCC hurdle, gets tantalizingly close to US release]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/03/sony-playstation-vita-clears-the-fcc-hurdle-gets-tantailizingly/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/03/sony-playstation-vita-clears-the-fcc-hurdle-gets-tantailizingly/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/03/sony-playstation-vita-clears-the-fcc-hurdle-gets-tantailizingly/#comments That label up there may not look like much, but the WiFi test report shown after the break makes one thing exceptionally clear: Sony's PlayStation Vita just cleared FCC testing. For those unfamiliar with the process, this is widely regarded as the final step before a consumer electronics device is shipped to retailers here in the States, and given that "fall" date we've been hearing about, it sure looks as if Sony's on pace to keep its promise. So, you did save room on this year's wish list for yet another console... right?

Continue reading Sony PlayStation Vita clears the FCC hurdle, gets tantalizingly close to US release

Sony PlayStation Vita clears the FCC hurdle, gets tantalizingly close to US release originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 03 Aug 2011 12:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsfccgaminghandheldhandheld gamingHandheldGamingpch 1101pch-1101pch-1101 hPch-1101HPch1101playstationplaystation portableplaystation vitaPlaystationPortablePlaystationVitapspsonyvitaWed, 03 Aug 2011 12:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo posts earnings, drops 3DS from $249 to $169 August 12th, current owners get 20 free games]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/28/nintendo-3ds-price-drops-from-249-to-169-august-12th-current/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/28/nintendo-3ds-price-drops-from-249-to-169-august-12th-current/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/28/nintendo-3ds-price-drops-from-249-to-169-august-12th-current/#comments The price of the Nintendo 3DS in the US is dropping precipitously August 12th from $249 to $169, with other regions getting a similar price break in their respective currency. Are you one of the 830,000~ US gamers that have already shelled out? Don't be too disappointed, the thank you gift for gamers that have logged into the eShop at least once before the price cut will be 10 free NES virtual console games September 1st, plus 10 more Game Boy Advance virtual console games -- that Nintendo is not planning on releasing to the general public -- before the end of the year. Left holding the bag for all this desperation generosity, are the company's investors. While pressure from the upcoming Vita is surely playing a part, Nintendo plans to sell 16 million 3DS units in the financial year, but still slashed its financial projections for the year from ¥110 billion to just ¥20 billion. Check out the financial PDFs at the source links below while you decide if 10 potentially-exclusive GBA games are worth paying $80 extra for.

Continue reading Nintendo posts earnings, drops 3DS from $249 to $169 August 12th, current owners get 20 free games

Nintendo posts earnings, drops 3DS from $249 to $169 August 12th, current owners get 20 free games originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 28 Jul 2011 04:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d3dsbreaking newsgaminghandheldnintendonintendo 3dsNintendo3dsportablepriceprice dropPriceDropThu, 28 Jul 2011 04:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon briefly pulls Cosmo Black Nintendo 3DS due to 'inventory issues,' reinstates it moments later]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/25/amazon-briefly-pulls-cosmo-black-nintendo-3ds-due-to-inventory/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/25/amazon-briefly-pulls-cosmo-black-nintendo-3ds-due-to-inventory/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/25/amazon-briefly-pulls-cosmo-black-nintendo-3ds-due-to-inventory/#comments Here's a weird one. Earlier today, we heard (and confirmed) reports that the Cosmo Black Nintendo 3DS was unavailable for purchase directly through Amazon. We followed up with the company to get to the bottom of things, and were fed this explanation from a company spokesperson:

"We received customer feedback that there may be an inventory issue with the Cosmo Black Nintendo 3DS. The integrity of the product is not under review. Customers are still able to purchase the Amazon.com offer of the Aqua Blue Nintendo 3DS, however the Amazon.com offer of [the] black Nintendo 3DS has been removed until the inventory issue is resolved. There is no problem with the Cosmo Black Nintendo 3DS units themselves. This is an internal inventory problem that was brought to our attention from customer feedback and we are looking into it and will resolve as soon as possible."

Turns out, "as soon as possible" meant "three minutes later." As of this very moment in time, the handheld is available and in stock over at the world's most recognized e-tailer, with the outfit confirming to us that sales "have been reinstated." At any rate, we suppose this serves to clarify one thing while bringing about a totally separate question -- there's nothing physically wrong with the 3DS so far as Amazon's concerned, but how on Earth is its inventory team reacting that quickly?

Amazon briefly pulls Cosmo Black Nintendo 3DS due to 'inventory issues,' reinstates it moments later originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 25 Jul 2011 16:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsAmazonfixgaminggaming handheldGamingHandheldhandheldin stockInStockissuenintendonintendo 3dsNintendo3dsproblemsalesMon, 25 Jul 2011 16:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox COO sees dedicated handheld market as a 'red ocean,' will let Sony and Nintendo swim in it]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/27/xbox-coo-sees-dedicated-handheld-market-as-a-red-ocean-will-l/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/27/xbox-coo-sees-dedicated-handheld-market-as-a-red-ocean-will-l/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/27/xbox-coo-sees-dedicated-handheld-market-as-a-red-ocean-will-l/#commentsDennis Durkin is COO and CFO for Microsoft's Interactive Entertainment Business. He's also a dude thoroughly disillusioned with the future of portable consoles. Speaking to IndustryGamers, Durkin explains that the "crowded" nature of the mobile gaming market right now makes it extremely difficult to launch a dedicated handheld gaming device successfully -- in his colorful words, it's "a very, very red ocean." Whose blood is soiling those waters? The Nintendo 3DS, says Durkin, which has sold reasonably well, but has clearly failed to reach the lofty expectations set for it by fans and previous handhelds from the company. Likewise, the PS Vita invites a lot of skepticism from the Xbox chief, who says his excitement is reserved for what Microsoft can do with Kinect, Xbox Live and unique content. You might say it's to be expected that an Xbox exec would be casting doubt over Sony's great new hope, but what we learn in the process is that Microsoft has no intentions of squaring up to its home console nemesis on the mobile front. Not with dedicated hardware, anyway.

Xbox COO sees dedicated handheld market as a 'red ocean,' will let Sony and Nintendo swim in it originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 27 Jun 2011 07:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cfocompetitioncompetitiveconsolecoodennis durkinDennisDurkingaminghandheldhandheld consoleHandheldConsolemicrosoftopinionplaystationportableps vitaPsVitaquotequotedsonyvitaxboxMon, 27 Jun 2011 07:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Cowon C2 portable media player review]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/26/cowon-c2-portable-media-player-review/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/26/cowon-c2-portable-media-player-review/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/26/cowon-c2-portable-media-player-review/#comments And here you were assuming the tried-and-true PMP was dead. Au contraire. Cowon's not giving up on its dream quite yet, but after the D2 hung around at the company's low-end for the better part of four years, it's an alphabetic step backwards that's taking over as the successor. The diminutive C2 is about as simple as a PMP gets -- design wise, anyway -- but it's actually capable of supporting both music and video on its 2.6-inch resistive touchpanel. And then there's the purported 55 hours of battery life, included microSD card for expansion and the company's world-class audio quality. Still, $135 goes a long (long!) way in the portable music industry these days -- does the C2 pack enough punch to make your short list? Head on past the break to find out.

Gallery: Cowon C2 hands-on and unboxing

Continue reading Cowon C2 portable media player review

Cowon C2 portable media player review originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 26 Jun 2011 14:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audioc2cowoncowon c2CowonC2flashhandheldmedia playerMediaPlayermp3mp3 playerMp3Playermusicpmpportable media playerPortableMediaPlayerreviewvideoSun, 26 Jun 2011 14:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo finally sells millionth 3DS unit in Japan, lives in the shadow of older brother]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/13/nintendo-finally-sells-millionth-3ds-unit-in-japan-lives-in-the/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/13/nintendo-finally-sells-millionth-3ds-unit-in-japan-lives-in-the/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/13/nintendo-finally-sells-millionth-3ds-unit-in-japan-lives-in-the/#comments A million in (Japanese) sales is a far cry from failure, but even big daddy Satoru Iwata admits the 3DS isn't quite living up to expectations. Nintendo's tenderfoot handheld finally hit the mark after 13 weeks, a snail's pace when compared to the original dual-screen wunderkind, which reportedly made the grade in a mere four. The 3DS' predecessors will undoubtedly forgive it for being a late bloomer, it's the competition it ought to worry about; the PSP sold its first million in about seven weeks. The 3DS could still plow its way to the top -- but with the PlayStation Vita looming large on the horizon, and the fledgling handheld having already lost a round the PSV's predecessor, Nintendo could be in for a rough ride.

Nintendo finally sells millionth 3DS unit in Japan, lives in the shadow of older brother originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 13 Jun 2011 21:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdse-shopeshopfiguresgaminghandheldhandheld consolehandheld gamingHandheldConsoleHandheldGamingJapanese SalesJapaneseSalesNintendoNintendo 3dsnintendo of americaNintendo3dsNintendoOfAmericanumberssalesstatisticsstatsMon, 13 Jun 2011 21:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo Wii U controller, first hands-on! (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/07/nintendo-wii-u-controller-first-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/07/nintendo-wii-u-controller-first-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/07/nintendo-wii-u-controller-first-hands-on/#comments We just elbowed our way through the crowds and managed to get our first hands-on time with Nintendo's revolutionary new controller, the Wii U. As you can see in the images, it's a rather different thing than even the company's typically unusually styled contraptions. The dominant feature is the center-mounted 6.2-inch touchscreen, which actually looks really good. We'd expected Nintendo would cheap out to keep costs low, but that doesn't appear to be the case, at least not in our first impressions. Join us after the break for more details.

Gallery: Nintendo Wii U Hands-On

Continue reading Nintendo Wii U controller, first hands-on! (video)

Nintendo Wii U controller, first hands-on! (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 07 Jun 2011 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3e3 2011E32011handheldhands-onnintendotouchscreenvideowiiwii uWiiUTue, 07 Jun 2011 13:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo 3DS system update is live, grab your free copy of Excitebike now]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/07/nintendo-3ds-system-update-is-live-grab-your-free-copy-of-excit/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/07/nintendo-3ds-system-update-is-live-grab-your-free-copy-of-excit/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/07/nintendo-3ds-system-update-is-live-grab-your-free-copy-of-excit/#comments True to its word, Nintendo has released a system update for anxious 3DS owners. The free update over WiFi delivers an internet browser and the eShop digital store to your multidimensional handheld. As a bonus, Ninty's offering the 3D-remastered NES game, Excitebike, for free until Tuesday with additional cash-money content coming to the store on Thursdays. We'll be hearing more from Nintendo, much more we hope, on Tuesday morning where we'll be bringing you live coverage of its next generation console announcements from E3. Join us, won't you?

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Nintendo 3DS system update is live, grab your free copy of Excitebike now originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 07 Jun 2011 01:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dseshopfirmwarefirmware updateFirmwareUpdategaminghand heldhand held consoleHandHeldHandHeldConsoleinternet browserInternetBrowsernintendosoftwaresoftware updateSoftwareUpdatesystem updateSystemUpdateweb browserWebBrowserTue, 07 Jun 2011 01:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony sells 70 million PSP units worldwide, still firmly in DS' rearview mirror]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/06/sony-sells-70-million-psp-units-worldwide-still-firmly-in-ds-r/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/06/sony-sells-70-million-psp-units-worldwide-still-firmly-in-ds-r/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/06/sony-sells-70-million-psp-units-worldwide-still-firmly-in-ds-r/#commentsSony's PlayStation Vita is obviously the company's handheld of tomorrow, but it's the PlayStation Portable that's being credited with the assist. The PSP has been a flagship device for Sony since December 12, 2004, and during its time on the market, a grand total of 70 million have been moved globally. That's the number belted out here at E3, which sounds downright ginormous at first listen. Unfortunately, that's nowhere near the 100 million DS units that Nintendo had shipped... back in 2009. It's worth mentioning that this tally includes the original PSP-1000, the slimmer / lighter PSP-2000, the not-too-different PSP-3000 and the critically panned PSP go, and we're guessing the Vita will eventually be lumped in here as well at some point. So, Mario's still laughing, but hey -- at least Sony's sold 298 million UMD units, right?

Continue reading Sony sells 70 million PSP units worldwide, still firmly in DS' rearview mirror

Sony sells 70 million PSP units worldwide, still firmly in DS' rearview mirror originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 06 Jun 2011 21:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3e3 2011E32011gaminghandheldpspsalessonyMon, 06 Jun 2011 21:49:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony files for 'PS Vita' trademark in Europe, intends to do something Next Generation with it]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/06/sony-files-for-ps-vita-trademark-in-europe-intends-to-do-some/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/06/sony-files-for-ps-vita-trademark-in-europe-intends-to-do-some/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/06/sony-files-for-ps-vita-trademark-in-europe-intends-to-do-some/#comments The words "PS Vita" and "PlayStation Vita" have just made their way through the EU Trademarks and Designs Registration Office, courtesy of a set of new applications from none other than Sony Computer Entertainment. The name PS Vita showed up in some source code on an official Sony site late last week, though it's still not certain that it'll be the official branding for the company's Next Generation Portable. "Vita" means "life" in Italian, so a literal translation would be PlayStation Life. For now, all we know is that the NGP will be large and in charge at E3, and the best way to find out how this Vita moniker relates to it will be to tune in to our Sony keynote liveblog later today, which can be found right over here.

Sony files for 'PS Vita' trademark in Europe, intends to do something Next Generation with it originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 06 Jun 2011 03:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applicationeueuropeeuropean unionEuropeanUniongaminghandheldipip lawIpLawlawlegallogongpplaystationplaystation vitaPlaystationVitaportablepsps vitaPsVitasonysony ngpSonyNgptrademarkvitaMon, 06 Jun 2011 03:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo 3DS eShop to launch on June 6 with internet browser and free Excite Bike]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/02/nintendo-3ds-eshop-to-launch-on-june-6-with-internet-browser-and/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/02/nintendo-3ds-eshop-to-launch-on-june-6-with-internet-browser-and/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/02/nintendo-3ds-eshop-to-launch-on-june-6-with-internet-browser-and/#comments Why wait until June 7th when you can instead get your update on June 6th? That's the question Nintendo has answered this morning, telling us that the coveted eShop update for the 3DS will come a day earlier than previously anticipated. This will finally give gamers the ability to download some titles straight to their system, but more importantly will give everyone a free copy of Excitebike, the NES classic, naturally re-mastered so that the 2-D side-scrolling racer will have a little bit of depth. Super Mario Land and a few other downloadable titles will come along help launch the show, with Nintendo pledging to add new content every Thursday thereafter.

But wait, there's more! Pokemon fans will be able to use their AR card to check out those they've already caught in 3D, and if you've purchased any DSiWare games you'll be able to download those to your 3DS. Last, but certainly not least, will be a full internet browser that you can spin up without exiting a game, which might make keeping tabs on that Ocarina of Time walkthrough a little easier. It has, after all, been a long time since last we vanquished Ganondorf and his Gerudo chums. Again, all this is set to go live in the evening of June 6th (which could still be June 7th where you are), so now might be a good time to invest in that bigger SD card you've had your eye on.

Continue reading Nintendo 3DS eShop to launch on June 6 with internet browser and free Excite Bike

Nintendo 3DS eShop to launch on June 6 with internet browser and free Excite Bike originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 02 Jun 2011 06:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdownloadable gamesDownloadableGamesdsidsiwaree3e3 2011E32011eshopexcite bikeExciteBikehandheldhandheld gamingHandheldGaminginternet browserInternetBrowsernintendoThu, 02 Jun 2011 06:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperkin 3DS Powerplus covers your handheld in battery-extending goodness]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/09/hyperkin-3ds-powerplus-covers-your-handheld-in-battery-extending/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/09/hyperkin-3ds-powerplus-covers-your-handheld-in-battery-extending/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/09/hyperkin-3ds-powerplus-covers-your-handheld-in-battery-extending/#comments
Nintendo 3DS users will soon have another way to extend their system's notoriously limited battery life, thanks to Hyperkin's new 3DS Powerplus. Slated for release this summer, the 2.2-ounce accessory slips on to the back of the console without obstructing the 3DS' cartridge port, SD card and game controls, while adding an extra 1800mAh to the device's standard 1300mAh battery. The Powerplus also features an enhanced grip, as well as an LED indicator that can give you an idea of how much gas you've got left in the tank. Hyperkin says its $19.99 appurtenance will more than double your 3DS' battery life, but, as we learned from Nyko, seeing is believing. Head past the break for an extra image of the Powerplus, along with a full PR.

Continue reading Hyperkin 3DS Powerplus covers your handheld in battery-extending goodness

Hyperkin 3DS Powerplus covers your handheld in battery-extending goodness originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 May 2011 08:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3ds3ds powerplus3dsPowerplusaccessoriesaccessoryattachmentbatteryBatteryLifeExternal BatteryExternalBatteryhandheldhyperkinlongevitynintendonintendo 3dsNintendo3dsPowerplusthird-party accessoryThird-partyAccessoryMon, 09 May 2011 08:05:00 EST