How Does The DSi Like Them Apples?

It is something to be expected by now: Nintendo releases a handheld product once, twice, three times and more, introducing a smaller form factor, more appealing design, and updated hardware and software features with each iteration.

The ever-popular Nintendo DS is the latest machine to get the upgrade treatment, as Nintendo has announced that the un-creatively named DSi will be hitting the Japanese market in less than a month.

The company seems to be at least slightly afraid of the potential threat that Apple's iPhone poses at it begins to round up support for its open software platform with a number of downloadable application and games, so the Big N has decided to also offer a download service and infinitely expandable memory. The DSi will come equipped with a built-in browser and "DSiWare" download service that works on a points system much like WiiWare. Combine that with a GBA slot-replacing (yes, GBA backwards compatibility has gotten the axe) SD card reader, and the DSi is ready to step into the digital content delivery arena.

Some experts have been supporting the idea that the iPhone could be the next big thing in handheld gaming, considering its high-powered graphics, input, and communications technology, so opening up new avenues for game development on the DSi is certainly a smart move for Nintendo. They've even decided to award DSi purchasers with incentive points that are good until March 2010, in an effort to jump-start everyone's digital shopping.

Other new features listed on the DSi's spec sheet include a smaller shell, larger screen (now 3.5 inches, up from 3), integrated 640x480 pixel camera (and portrait-morphing software), mp3 playback, and an audio recorder with pitch and speed adjustment options.

The evolutionary DSi will hit Japan--where it will more than likely be instantly SOLD OUT--on November 1st at a retail price of 18,900 yen, or about $180. I have to admit that I kinda want one. Then again, when was the last time I downloaded a WiiWare game? (Hint: never)