Nintendo DS
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{{refimprove|date=July 2008}}
{{Infobox CVG system
|title = Nintendo DS
|logo = [[Image:Nintendo DS.svg|250px]]
|image = [[Image:Nintendo DS Trans.png|250px]]
|manufacturer = [[Nintendo]]
|family = Nintendo DS
|type = [[Handheld game console]]
|generation = [[History of video game consoles (seventh generation)|Seventh generation era]]
|lifespan = {{Vgrelease|NA=[[November 21]] [[2004]]}}{{Vgrelease|JP=[[December 2]] [[2004]]}}{{Vgrelease|AUS=[[February 24]] [[2005]]}}{{Vgrelease|EU=[[March 11]] [[2005]]}}
|CPU = One 67 MHz<ref>[http://www.arm.com/products/CPUs/ARM946E-S.html ARM946E-S]</ref> ([[ARM architecture|ARM]]) and one 33 MHz [[ARM7TDMI]]
|media = [[Game Boy Advance|GBA]] cartridges<br/>Nintendo DS game cards
|storage = [[Saved game|Cartridge save]], 4 MB [[random access memory|tRAM]]
|connectivity = [[Wi-Fi]], [[Local area network|LAN]]
|onlineservice = [[Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection]]
|unitssold = Worldwide: 70.6 million, including DS Lite units <small>(as of [[March 31]] [[2008]])</small><ref name="earnings release Q1 2008"/> ([[#Marketing and sales|details]])
|topgame = ''[[Nintendogs]]'', 18.67 million, all versions combined <small>(as of [[March 31]] [[2008]])</small><ref name="080425e">{{cite web |url=http://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2008/080425e.pdf#page=6 |title=Financial Results Briefing for Fiscal Year Ended March 2008 |publisher=[[Nintendo]] |date=2008-04-25 |format=[[PDF]] |pages=6 |accessdate=2008-04-25}}</ref><br />''[[New Super Mario Bros.]]'', {{nowrap|14.16 million}} <small>(as of [[March 31]] [[2008]])</small><ref name="080425e"/>
|successor=[[Nintendo DS Lite]] (redesign)
}}
The '''Nintendo DS''' (sometimes abbreviated to '''DS''' or '''NDS''', and now officially renamed '''Original Style Nintendo DS''') is a dual-screen [[handheld game console]] developed and manufactured by [[Nintendo]]. It was released in [[2004 in video gaming|2004]] in Canada, the United States, and Japan. The console features a [[clamshell]] design, similar to the [[Game Boy Advance SP]], with two LCD screens inside - with the bottom one being a [[touchscreen]]. The Nintendo DS also features a built-in [[microphone]] and supports wireless [[IEEE 802.11]] ([[Wi-Fi]]) standards,<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.darkain.com/nintendo_ds/nifi.php | title=Nintendo DS - WI-FI vs NI-FI | author=Darkain |date=2005-01-21 | accessdate=2006-04-02}}</ref> allowing players to interact with each other within short range (10–30 m, depending on conditions) or online with the [[Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection]] service, which launched later in the console's lifespan. This was the first Nintendo console to be released in North America prior to Japan.
The system's code name was Nitro,<ref>{{cite web | url=http://cube.ign.com/mail/2004-03-10.html | title=N-Query: DS... No, Nitro. Wait, it's DS! | author=Matt Casamassina | publisher=[[IGN]] |date=2004-03-10 | accessdate=2007-09-19}}</ref> and this can be seen in the model codes that appear on the unit (NTR-001). The console's name officially refers to "Developers' System", in reference to the new game design the system was meant to inspire, and "Dual Screen", the system's most obvious and distinct feature.<ref name="dsname">{{cite web | url=http://www.nintendo.com/consumer/systems/ds/faq.jsp#ds | title=Nintendo DS Frequently Asked Questions | publisher=Nintendo | accessdate=2007-07-24}}</ref>
On [[March 2]] [[2006]], Nintendo released the [[Nintendo DS Lite]], a redesign of the Nintendo DS, in [[Japan]]. It was later released in [[North America]], [[Europe]], and [[Australia]] in June 2006. The DS Lite is a slimmer and lighter version of the Nintendo DS and has brighter screens. Nintendo of America refers to the older model as the "original style" Nintendo DS.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.nintendo.com/consumer/systems/selectds.jsp | title=Nintendo DS customer service | publisher=Nintendo | accessdate=2007-08-17}}</ref>
In 2008, Nintendo was honored at the 59th Annual [[Technology & Engineering Emmy Award]]s for pioneering the development of handheld games with its Nintendo DS system.{{fact|date=July 2008}}
==Development and launch==
<!-- Image with unknown copyright status removed: [[Image:Prototype_Nintendo_DS.jpg|thumb|Nintendo DS prototype shown at E3 2004]] -->
[[Image:Donkeykong1 ingame.jpg|thumb|125px|The ''[[Donkey Kong (Game & Watch)|Donkey Kong]]'' version of the [[Game & Watch]].]]
{{seealso|Nintendo DS launches}}
On [[November 13]] [[2003]], Nintendo announced that it would be creating a new console for release in 2004.<ref name="newconsole">{{cite web|url=http://ds.ign.com/articles/541/541729p1.html|title=Nintendo Going Back to the Basics. Full story about the company offering a new system in 2004.|accessdate=2007-10-04|date=2003-11-13|publisher=[[IGN]]}}</ref> Nintendo said that it would not be the successor to either the [[Nintendo GameCube]] or the [[Game Boy Advance]],<ref name="newconsole"/> but rather it would be considered a "third pillar" alongside the two consoles.<ref name="thirdpillar">{{cite web|url=http://www.n-sider.com/newsview.php?type=story&storyid=55|title=Various Satoru Iwata comments regarding the Nintendo DS|author=Glen Bayer|publisher=N-sider.com|date=2004-03-01|accessdate=2007-10-04}}</ref> On [[January 20]] [[2004]], the console was announced under the codename "Nintendo DS".<ref name=janpress>{{cite web|url=http://web.archive.org/web/20040402004236/http://biz.yahoo.com/bw/040120/206239_1.html | title=Nintendo Announces Dual-Screened Portable Game System |date=2004-01-20 | accessdate=2007-07-10}}</ref> Nintendo released very few details at that time, only saying that the console would have two separate 3 [[Inch|in.]] [[TFT LCD]] display panels, separate processors, and up to 1 gigabit of semiconductor memory.<ref name=janpress/><ref>{{cite web|title=GI Online Interviews NOA's Beth Llewelyn About The Nintendo DS|url=http://www.gameinformer.com/News/Story/200401/N04.0121.1808.42530.htm |date=2004-01-21|author=Billy Berghammer|accessdate=2007-07-10}}</ref> Nintendo president [[Satoru Iwata]] said, "We have developed Nintendo DS based upon a completely different concept from existing game devices in order to provide players with a unique entertainment experience for the 21st century."<ref name=janpress/> In March, the codename was changed to "Nitro" and a document containing most of the console's technical specifications was leaked.<ref>{{cite web | title=More Nintendo DS (or Nitro?) specs leaked |url=http://itvibe.com/news/2392/ |date=2004-03-13 | author=Kavanagh, Rich | accessdate=2007-07-13}}</ref> In May, the codename was changed back to "Nintendo DS" (DS standing for Dual Screen)<ref name="dsname"/> and the console was shown in prototype form at [[E3]]. All of the features of the console were released by Nintendo at E3.<ref>{{cite web |title=Nintendo unveiling new portable | url=http://www.usatoday.com/life/lifestyle/2004-05-11-nintendo-ds_x.htm |date=2004-05-05 | author=Kent, Steve | accessdate=2007-07-13}}</ref> On [[July 28]] [[2004]], Nintendo revealed a new design, one that was described as "sleeker and more elegant" than the one shown at E3. Also, the codename "Nintendo DS" became the official name of the console that day.<ref>{{cite web |title=Nintendo keeps 'DS' codename, tweaks hardware | url=http://www.usatoday.com/tech/news/2004-07-28-no-really-its-ds_x.htm |date=2004-07-28 | accessdate=2007-07-13}}</ref>
The Nintendo DS bears a striking resemblance to Nintendo's first handheld, the [[Game & Watch]], specifically the multi-screen versions such as ''[[Donkey Kong (Game & Watch)|Donkey Kong]]''.
On [[September 20]] [[2004]], Nintendo announced that the Nintendo DS would be released in [[North America]] on [[November 21]] [[2004]] for [[United States dollar|US$]]149.99.<ref>{{cite web | title=Official Nintendo DS Launch Details | url=http://ds.ign.com/articles/549/549919p1.html | author=Harris, Craig |date=2004-09-20 | accessdate=2007-08-13}}</ref> It was set to release on [[December 2]] [[2004]] in [[Japan]] and in the first quarter of 2005 in Europe and Australia. The console was released in North America with a midnight launch event at Universal CityWalk EB Games in [[Los Angeles, California]]. The console was launched quietly in Japan compared to the North America launch; one source cites the cold weather as the reason.<ref>{{cite web | title=NDS Launches in Japan |url=http://ds.ign.com/articles/569/569911p1.html |date=2004-12-01 | author=Gantayat, Anoop | accessdate=2007-07-16}}</ref> In January 2005, the [[Australia]] release date of [[February 24]] [[2005]] and the [[Europe]] release date of [[March 11]] [[2005]] were announced.<ref>{{cite web | title=Nintendo DS Down Under | url=http://ds.ign.com/articles/579/579139p1.html |date=2005-01-11 | author=Harris, Craig | accessdate=2007-07-16}}</ref><ref name=uklaunch>{{cite web | title=UK's Midnight Madness Launch | url=http://ds.ign.com/articles/594/594066p1.html |date=2005-03-07 | accessdate=2007-07-16}}</ref> Regarding the European launch, Nintendo President Satoru Iwata said: <blockquote>
Europe is an extremely important market for Nintendo, and we are pleased we can offer such a short period of time between the US and European launch. We believe that the Nintendo DS will change the way people play video games and our mission remains to expand the game play experience. Nintendo DS caters for the needs of all gamers whether for more dedicated gamers who want the real challenge they expect, or the more casual gamers who want quick, pick up and play fun.<ref name="iwata-ds-quote">{{cite web | url=http://ds.ign.com/articles/583/583086p1.html | title=Europe DS Launch Title Details | author=Craig Harris | publisher=[[IGN]] |date=2007-01-27 | accessdate=2007-10-04}}</ref>
</blockquote>
==Hardware==
===Input and output===<!-- This section is linked from [[Castlevania: Dawn of Sorrow]] -->
[[Image:Nintendo DS Stylus.PNG|thumb|150px|The Nintendo DS stylus used for games played on the touchscreen.]]
The lower display of the Nintendo DS is overlaid with a touchscreen, designed to accept input from the included [[stylus]], the user's fingers, or a curved plastic tab attached to the optional wrist strap. The touchscreen allows users to interact with in-game elements more directly than by pressing buttons; for example, in the included chatting software, [[PictoChat]], the stylus is used to write messages or draw.
Traditional controls are located on either side of the touchscreen. To the left is a [[D-pad]], with a narrow Power button above it, and to the right are the A, B, X, and Y buttons, with narrow Select and Start buttons above them. Shoulder buttons L and R are located on the upper corners of the lower half of the system. The overall button layout is similar to the controller of the [[Super Nintendo Entertainment System]] (Super Famicom in Japan).
The Nintendo DS features [[stereophonic sound|stereo]] speakers providing [[virtual surround|virtual surround sound]] (depending on the software) located on either side of the upper display screen. This is a first for a Nintendo handheld, as the [[Game Boy line]] of systems has only supported stereo sound through the use of headphones or external speakers.
A built-in microphone is located below the left side of the bottom screen. It has been used for a variety of purposes, including [[speech recognition]] (''[[Nintendogs]]'', ''[[Brain Age: Train Your Brain in Minutes a Day!]]''), chatting online between and during gameplay sessions (''[[Pokémon Diamond and Pearl]]''), and [[minigame]]s that require the player to blow or shout into the microphone.
===Technical specifications===
*'''Mass:''' 275 grams (9.7 ounces).
*'''Physical dimensions:''' 148.7 x 84.7 x 28.9 mm (5.85 x 3.33 x 1.13 inches).
*'''Screens:''' Two separate 3-inch [[TFT LCD]], [[display resolution|resolution]] of 256 x 192 pixels, dimensions of 62 x 46 mm and 77 mm diagonal, and a [[dot pitch]] of 0.24 mm. The gap between the screens is approximately 21 mm, equivalent to about 92 "hidden" lines. The lowermost display of the Nintendo DS is overlaid with a resistive [[touchscreen]], which registers pressure from one point on the screen at a time, averaging multiple points of contact if necessary.
*'''CPUs:''' Two [[ARM architecture|ARM]] processors, an [[ARM9E|ARM946E-S]] main CPU and [[ARM7TDMI]] co-processor at clock speeds of 67 MHz and 33 MHz respectively. The ARM946E-S CPU processes 3D rendering and the ARM7TDMI processes 2D rendering for DS games and Game boy Advance gameplay.
*'''RAM:''' 4 MB of Mobile RAM
*'''Voltage:''' 1.65 volts required
*'''Storage:''' 256 kB of Serial Flash Memory
*'''Wireless:''' 802.11 + Nintendo Original Protocol
*'''Wi-Fi:''' Built-in [[802.11]] Wireless Network Connection (802.11b/g compatible with WEP encryption support only)
The system's [[3D computer graphics|3D]] hardware performs [[transform, clipping, and lighting|transform and lighting]], texture-coordinate transformation, [[texture mapping]], [[alpha compositing|alpha blending]], [[anti-aliasing]], [[cel-shaded animation|cel shading]], and [[z-buffering]]; however, it uses point ([[Nearest neighbor interpolation|nearest neighbor]]) [[texture filtering]], leading to some titles having a blocky appearance. The system is theoretically capable of rendering about 120,000 triangles per second at 60 [[frame rate|frames per second]], which is comparable to the [[Nintendo 64]].{{Fact|date=February 2008}} Unlike most 3D hardware, it has a set limit on the number of triangles it can render as part of a single scene; the maximum amount is about 6144 vertices, or 2048 triangles per frame. The 3D hardware is designed to render to a single screen at a time, so rendering 3D to both screens is difficult and decreases performance significantly. The DS is generally more limited by its polygon budget than by its pixel fill rate. There are also 512 kilobytes of texture memory per screen, and the maximum texture size is 1024x1024 pixels.
The system has 656 kilobytes of video memory<ref>{{cite web | title=A guide to homebrew development for the Nintendo DS | url=http://osdl.sourceforge.net/main/documentation/misc/nintendo-DS/HomebrewForDS.html#intendeduse | accessdate=2007-09-29}}</ref> and two [[2D computer graphics|2D]] engines (one per screen). These are similar to (but more powerful than) the [[Game Boy Advance]]'s single 2D engine; however, the cores are divided into the ''main core'' and ''sub core''. Only the main core is capable of vertex 3D rendering.
The Nintendo DS has compatibility with [[Wi-Fi]] [[IEEE 802.11#802b|IEEE 802.11]]. The unit also supports a special wireless format created by Nintendo and secured using RSA security signing (used by the wireless drawing and chatting program PictoChat for the DS). Wi-Fi is used for accessing the [[Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection]], where users can use the internet or compete with other users playing the same Wi-Fi compatible game.
===Media specifications===<!-- This section is linked from [[Nintendo DS Game Card]] -->
<!-- Deleted image removed: [[Image:Nintendo DS Game Card.PNG|thumb|right|120px|Nintendo DS games are on small, thin "game cards", as opposed to the larger cartridges used by the [[Game Boy line]] and other previous Nintendo systems.]] -->
Nintendo DS games use a proprietary [[Solid state (electronics)|solid state]] [[Read-only memory|ROM]] "game card" format resembling the memory cards used in other portable electronic devices such as digital cameras. It currently supports cards up to 2 [[gigabit]] (2048 [[megabit|Mb]] or 256 [[Megabyte|MB]]) in size (with ''[[ASH: Archaic Sealed Heat]]'' being the first DS game to use a 2 gigabit card),<ref>http://ds.ign.com/articles/875/875871p1.html</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.cubed3.com/news/8133/ | title=E3 2007 News | Archaic Sealed Heat (Nintendo DS) RPG Details | author=Adam Riley | publisher=[[Cubed³]] |date=[[2007-07-15]] |accessdate=2007-11-04}}</ref> which is four times the amount of memory that the largest Nintendo 64 cartridge was able to store (512 Mb or 64 MB). The cards always have a small amount of [[flash memory]] or an [[EEPROM]] to save user data such as game progress or high scores. The game cards are 33.0 mm × 35.0 mm × 3.8 mm (approximately half the width and half as thick as Game Boy Advance cartridges) and weigh around 3.5 g (1/8 ounce).
Based on an [[IGN]] blog by the developer of ''[[MechAssault: Phantom War]]'', larger (such as 128 [[Megabyte|MB]]) cards have a slower data transfer rate than the more common smaller (such as 64 MB) cards; however, the specific rates were not mentioned.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://blogs.ign.com/MechAssaultDS/2006/06/16/21863/ | title=MechAssault DS Developer Diary | author=Sara Guinness | publisher=[[IGN]] |date=[[2006-06-16]] |accessdate=2007-11-04}}</ref>
The system's code-name was Nitro, resulting in the letters "NTR" appearing in the serial number written on the back of game cards and the system itself. NTR-XXX indicates the model numbers found on the original style Nintendo DS and its accessories.
===Firmware===
Nintendo's own custom [[firmware]] boots the system. A health and safety warning is displayed first, then the main menu is loaded. The main menu presents the player with four main options to select: play a DS game, use PictoChat, initiate DS Download Play, or play a Game Boy Advance Game.
The firmware also features an alarm clock, several options for customization (such as boot priority for when games are inserted and GBA screen preference), and the ability to input user information (such as name, birthday, favorite color, etc.) that can be used in games.
===Battery life===
The Nintendo DS contains a rechargeable [[lithium-ion battery]] with a capacity of 850 mAH.{{Fact|date=February 2008}} On a full four-hour charge, the factory 850 mAH battery lasts about 10 hours.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.nintendo.com/consumer/systems/ds/battery_faq.jsp#last | title=Nintendo DS Rechargeable Battery Frequently Asked Questions | publisher=Nintendo | accessdate=2006-04-02}}</ref> Battery life is affected by multiple factors including speaker volume, use of one or both screens, back lighting, and use of wireless connectivity. The biggest effect on battery life is caused by using the backlight, which can be turned off in the main menu screen, or in selected games (such as ''[[Super Mario 64 DS]]''). The battery is designed to be removed only when it expires.
To sustain battery life in the midst of a game, users can close the Nintendo DS system, putting the DS in sleep mode that also pauses the game that is being played; however, closing the lid while playing a Game Boy Advance game will not put the Nintendo DS into sleep mode; the game will continue to run normally, including the back light.{{Fact|date=December 2007}} Certain DS games (such as ''[[Animal Crossing: Wild World]]'') also will not pause but the backlight, screens, and speakers will turn off. When saving the game in [[Pokémon Diamond and Pearl (video games)|''Pokémon Diamond'' and ''Pearl'']], ''[[Zoo Tycoon DS]]'', ''[[SimCity DS]]'', or ''[[Mega Man Battle Network 5]]'', the DS will not go into sleep mode.
==Features==
===Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection===
{{main|Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection}}
The Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection is a free online game service run by Nintendo. Players with a compatible Nintendo DS game can connect to the service via a [[Wi-Fi]] network using a [[Nintendo Wi-Fi USB Connector]] or a [[wireless router]]. The service was launched in North America on [[November 14]] [[2005]] with the release of ''[[Mario Kart DS]]''. Various online games, and a web browser (see below) are now available.
===Download Play===<!-- This section is linked from [[DS Download Play]] and [[Nintendo DS Download Play]] -->
With Download Play it is possible for users to play [[multiplayer]] games with other Nintendo DS systems using only one game card. Players must have their systems within wireless range (up to approximately 100 feet) of each other and the guest system to download the necessary data from the host system.
Some Nintendo DS retailers features [[DS Download Station]]s that allow users to download demos of upcoming and currently available DS games; however, due to memory limitations, the downloads are erased once the system is powered off. The Download Station is made up of 1 to 8 standard retail DS units, with a standard DS card containing the demo data. On May 7, 2008, Nintendo released the [[Nintendo Channel]] for download on the Wii. The Nintendo Channel uses Nintendo's WiiConnect24 to download Nintendo DS demos through the Nintendo Channel. From there, a person can select the game demo he wishes to play and, similar to the Nintendo DS Download Stations at retail outlets, download the demo (temporarily) to his DS.
===PictoChat===
{{main|PictoChat}}
PictoChat allows users to communicate with other Nintendo DS users within local wireless range, which is usually 30 feet around the system. Users can enter text (via a small on screen keyboard), handwrite messages or draw pictures (via the stylus and touchscreen). There are four chatrooms (A, B, C, D) in which people can go to chat. Up to sixteen people can connect in any one room.
===Compatibility===
The Nintendo DS is backwards compatible with [[Game Boy Advance]] (GBA) cartridges. The smaller Nintendo DS game cards fit into Slot 1 on the top of the system, while Game Boy Advance games fit into Slot 2 on the bottom of the system. The Nintendo DS is not compatible with games for the [[Game Boy Color]] and the original Game Boy, due to a slightly different form factor, voltage requirements, and the absence of the Sharp [[Z80]] compatible processor used in these systems.
The handheld does not have a port for the Game Boy Advance Link Cable, so multiplayer or [[Nintendo GameCube Game Boy Advance Cable|GameCube-Game Boy Advance]] link-up modes are not available in Game Boy Advance titles. Only single player mode is supported on the Nintendo DS.
The Nintendo DS only uses one screen when playing Game Boy Advance games. The user can configure the system to use either the top or bottom screen by default. The games are displayed within a black border on the screen, due to the slightly different screen resolution between the two systems (256 × 192px (approx. .05 megapixels) for the Nintendo DS, and 240 × 160px (approx. .04 megapixels) for the Game Boy Advance).
Nintendo DS games inserted into Slot 1 are able to detect the presence of specific Game Boy Advance games in Slot 2. In many such games, either stated in the game during gameplay or mostly explained in the games' instruction manuals, extra content can be unlocked or added by starting the Nintendo DS game with the appropriate Game Boy Advance game inserted. Some of the content can stay permanent, even when the GBA game has been removed after content has been added.
Additionally, Slot 2 can be used to house expansion paks, such as the [[Rumble Pak]] and the [[Nintendo DS Browser#DS Lite expansion pak|Nintendo DS Memory Expansion Pak]].
===Regional division===
The Nintendo DS is [[regional lockout|region free]] in the sense that any console will run a Nintendo DS game purchased anywhere in the world; however, the Chinese version games can only be played on the Chinese iQue DS, whose larger firmware chip contains the required [[Chinese character]] glyph images. Although Nintendo DS of other regions cannot play the Chinese games, iQue DS can play games of other regions. Also, as with Game Boy games, some games that require both players to have a Nintendo DS game card for multiplayer play will not necessarily work together if the games are from different regions (e.g. a Japanese Nintendo DS game may not work with a North American Nintendo DS game, though some titles, such as ''Mario Kart DS'', are mutually compatible). With the addition of the [[Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection]], certain games can be played over the Internet with users of a different region game.
Some Wi-Fi enabled games (e.g. ''Mario Kart DS'') allow the selection of opponents by region. The options are "Regional" ("Continent" in Europe) and "Worldwide", as well as two non-location specific settings. This allows the player to limit competitors to only those opponents based in the same geographical area. It is unknown whether this is based on the region code of the console in use, the region of the game card, or [[geolocation]] of the IP address.
==Accessories==
{{main|Nintendo DS accessories}}
[[Image:GBAandDS SlotCompare.jpg|thumb|[[Game Boy Advance]] game slot on Game Boy Advance (above) and Nintendo DS (below).]]
Although the secondary port on the Nintendo DS does accept and support Game Boy Advance cartridges (but not Game Boy, and Game Boy Color cartridges), Nintendo has emphasized that its main intention for its inclusion was to allow a wide variety of accessories to be released for the system, the Game Boy Advance compatibility titles being a logical extension.
Nintendo announced at [[E3]] [[History of E3#During the Rise of Online Gaming (2002-2005)|2005]] that it would launch "headset accessories" for [[voice over IP]] (VoIP) enabled games.
===Paddle Controller===
The Paddle Controller was a peripheral that was packaged with ''[[Arkanoid DS]]'' to simulate the original arcade experience. The controller fit into the GBA Slot of the Nintendo DS and is currently only available in Japan. The controller came in different colors and had a small knob that was used to guide the ''Arkanoid'' bumper. The controller will also work with ''[[Space Invaders Extreme]]''.
===Rumble Pak===
{{main|Rumble Pak#Nintendo DS}}
The Rumble Pak was the first official expansion slot accessory. In the form of a Game Boy Advance cartridge, the Rumble Pak vibrates to reflect the action in compatible games, such as when the player bumps into an obstacle or loses a life. It was released in North America and Japan in 2005, as a separate accessory and bundled with ''[[Metroid Prime Pinball]]''.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://store.nintendo.com/ | title=Nintendo Online Store|accessdate=2006-04-02}}</ref>
In Europe, the rumble pack was first available with the game ''[[Magnetica|Actionloop]]'', and later ''Metroid Prime Pinball''. It is also possible to buy the rumble pack straight from Nintendo.
===Nintendo DS Headset===
The Nintendo DS Headset is the official headset for the Nintendo DS. It plugs into the headset port (which is a combination of a standard 3.5 mm headphone connector and a proprietary microphone connector) on the bottom of the system. It features one earphone and a microphone, and is compatible with all games that use the internal microphone. It was released in Japan on [[September 14]] [[2006]].<ref>{{cite web | url=http://news.spong.com/article/10473?cb=525 | title=Official DS Headset – Pics of New Must-Have | publisher=Spong | accessdate=2006-11-26}}</ref> The headset was released in North America on [[April 22]] [[2007]], alongside [[Pokémon Diamond and Pearl (video games)|''Pokémon Diamond'' and ''Pearl'']], two games that have built-in voice chat. Other communication headsets not made by Nintendo will also work as the mic.
===Opera Internet browser===
{{main|Nintendo DS Browser}}
On [[February 15]] [[2006]], Nintendo announced a version of the [[cross-platform]] web browser [[Opera (web browser)|Opera]] for the DS system.<ref name="Opera PR">{{cite press release | url=http://www.opera.com/pressreleases/en/2006/02/15 | title=Giving gamers two windows to the Web: The Opera Browser for Nintendo DS |date=2006-02-15 | publisher=Opera Software | accessdate=2006-04-02}}</ref> The browser can use one screen as an overview, a zoomed portion of which appears on the other screen, or both screens together to present a single tall view of the page.<ref name="Opera Berit">{{cite web | author=Berit Hanson |date=2006-02-16 | url=http://my.opera.com/berit/blog/show.dml/146280 | title=Opera for Nintendo DS | work=Berit's Blog | accessdate=2006-07-03}}</ref> The browser went on sale in Japan and Europe in 2006,<ref name="Opera Japan">{{cite press release | publisher=Opera Software ASA |date=2006-06-21 | title=Mark your calendars: Opera announces Nintendo DS browser release date in Japan | url=http://opera.com/announcements/en/2006/06/21/ | accessdate=2006-06-21}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.4colorrebellion.com/archives/2006/07/17/new-release-dates-for-europe/ | title=Japan: Nintendo DS Press Conference | author=Chris Playo | publisher=NintendoDS Advanced | accessdate=2006-04-02}}</ref> and in the U.S. on [[June 4]] [[2007]].<ref>{{cite web | url=http://ds.ign.com/articles/771/771323p1.html | title=GDC 2007: Nintendo DS Browser US Bound | author=Craig Harris | publisher=[[IGN]] |date=2007-03-07 | accessdate=2007-09-19}}</ref>
===Nintendo Wi-Fi USB Connector===
{{main|Nintendo Wi-Fi USB Connector}}
This accessory plugs into a PC's [[USB]] port and creates a [[wireless access point]], allowing up to five Nintendo DS units to access the [[Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection]] service through the host computer's Internet connection. The operating systems fully supported by the Wi-Fi USB Connector's software are Microsoft [[Windows XP]] and [[Windows Vista]].
===Nintendo MP3 Player===
{{main|Play-Yan}}
The Nintendo MP3 Player (a modified version of the device known as the Play-Yan in Japan) was released on [[December 8]] [[2006]] by Nintendo of Europe at a retail price of £29.99/€30. The add-on uses removable [[Secure Digital card|SD]] cards to store MP3 audio files, and can be used in any device that features support for [[Game Boy Advance]] cartridges; however, due to this, it is limited in terms of its user-interface and functionality, as it does not support using both screens of the DS simultaneously, nor does it make use of its touch-screen capability.
===Slide controller===
The "slide controller" comes packaged with the game ''Slide Adventure: Mag Kid'', which was released on [[August 2]] [[2007]]. The slide controller plugs into the GBA game slot of the DS, and is placed below the DS, on a firm surface. The DS can then be moved around to control a game, as the slide controller will pick up the motions, just as when a player would click a button.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://ds.ign.com/articles/794/794548p1.html | title=Nintendo's New DS Controller | accessdate=2007-06-07 |date=2007-06-06 | publisher=[[IGN]]}}</ref>
===Guitar grip controller===
[[Image:Gh on tour grip.jpg|thumb|125px|right|The "Guitar Grip" fits into the GBA slot on the Nintendo DS Lite to simulate the guitar controller.]]
The Guitar grip controller comes packaged with the game ''[[Guitar Hero: On Tour]]'' and is plugged into the GBA game slot. It features four coloured buttons just like the ones that can be found on regular ''[[Guitar Hero (series)|Guitar Hero]]'' guitar controllers for the stationary consoles, though it lacks the fifth orange button found on the guitar controllers. The DS [[Guitar Hero]] controller comes with a small "pick-stylus" (which is shaped like a guitar pick, as the name suggests) that can be put away into a small slot on the controller. It also features a hand strap. The game works with both the DS Lite and the original Nintendo DS as it comes with an adapter for the original DS.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gamespot.com/ds/action/guitarhero/news.html?sid=6189175 |title=Guitar Hero: On Tour First Look |author=Brian Ekberg |publisher=[[GameSpot]] |date=2008-04-14 |accessdate=2008-05-26}}</ref>
===Card Swipe Scanner===
It was included with the game ''[[Mushiking 10 Anniversary]]'' where users can swipe Japanese [[Mushiking]] Cards into it.{{fact|date=July 2008}}
===Ubisoft Pedometer===
The Ubisoft [[Pedometer]], manufactured by [[Thrustmaster]], comes packaged with ''[[My Weight Loss Coach]]''. It is powered by one CR2032 Lithium Cell battery, which can be replaced. It also features a belt clip, rubber dust cover, Reset button, and a number display that can count steps of up to 99,999. The key feature of the Pedometer is its ability to connect to the DS, via the GBA Slot (Slot-2). When connected with ''My Weight Loss Coach'', it will add the number of steps users have taken to the game's data, and will reset itself.
==Hacking and homebrew==
{{main|Nintendo DS homebrew}}
Since the release of the Nintendo DS, a great deal of hacking has occurred involving the DS's fully rewritable firmware, Wi-Fi connection, game cards that allow SD storage, and software use. There are now many different emulators for the DS such as: NES, SNES, Sega Master System, Sega Megadrive, Neo-Geo Pocket, Neo-Geo (arcade) as well as many other older consoles like Game boy Color. Due to the processor power and RAM limitations, the DS cannot emulate Nintendo 64, Playstation, PS2, Dreamcast, Gamecube, Xbox, or any other seventh-generation systems such as the Playstation 3 or the Nintendo Wii.
There are a number of cards which either have built-in flash memory, or a slot which can accept an SD, CompactFlash, or MicroSD cards. These cards allow the user to play music, movies and load homebrew and commercial games.
In [[South Korea]], many video game consumers exploit game software copies of [[video game console]]s, including the Nintendo DS. In 2007, 500,000 copies of DS games were sold, while the sales of the DS hardware units was 800,000.<ref>[http://www.chosunonline.com/article/20071211000038 ニンテンドーDSの違法コピーにご注意!], [[The Chosun Ilbo]], [[December 11]] [[2007]]</ref>
==Marketing and sales==<!-- This section is linked from this article's infobox -->
{{ProseTimeline}}
{| class="wikitable" style="float:right; text-align:right"
|+ Life-to-date number of units sold (DS and DS Lite combined), millions
|-
! Date
! Japan
! Americas
! Other
! Worldwide
|-
! [[2004-12-31]]<ref name="earnings release Q4 2004">{{cite web | url=http://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2005/050126e.pdf#page=6 | title=Consolidated financial highlights | accessdate=2007-04-26 | date=[[2005-01-26]] | format=PDF | publisher=Nintendo Co., Ltd. | pages=7}}</ref>
| 1.45 || 1.36 || 0.03
! 2.84
|-
! [[2005-03-31]]<ref name="earnings release Q1 2005">{{cite web | url=http://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2005/050526e.pdf#page=39 | title=Consolidated financial highlights | accessdate=2007-04-26 | date=[[2005-05-26]] | format=PDF | publisher=Nintendo Co., Ltd. | pages=39}}</ref>
| 2.12 || 2.19 || 0.95
! 5.27
|-
! [[2005-06-30]]<ref name="earnings release Q2 2005">{{cite web | url=http://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2005/050728e.pdf#page=6 | title=Consolidated financial highlights | accessdate=2007-01-25 | date=[[2005-07-28]] | format=PDF | publisher=Nintendo Co., Ltd. | pages=7}}</ref>
| || ||
! 6.65
|-
! [[2005-09-30]]<ref name="earnings release Q3 2005">{{cite web | url=http://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2005/051124e.pdf#page=25 | title=Consolidated financial highlights | accessdate=2007-04-26 | date=[[2005-11-24]] | format=PDF | publisher=Nintendo Co., Ltd. | pages=25}}</ref>
| 3.63 || 2.87 || 2.34
! 8.83
|-
! [[2005-12-31]]<ref name="earnings release Q4 2005">{{cite web | url=http://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2006/060126e.pdf#page=6 | title=Consolidated financial highlights | accessdate=2007-04-26 | date=[[2006-01-26]] | format=PDF | publisher=Nintendo Co., Ltd. | pages=7}}</ref>
| 5.70 || 4.63 || 4.10
! 14.43
|-
! [[2006-03-31]]<ref name="earnings release Q1 2006">{{cite web | url=http://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2006/060525e.pdf#page=30 | title=Consolidated financial highlights | accessdate=2007-04-26 | date=[[2006-05-25]] | format=PDF | publisher=Nintendo Co., Ltd. | pages=30}}</ref>
| 6.91 || 5.11 || 4.71
! 16.73
|-
! [[2006-06-30]]<ref name="earnings release Q2 2006">{{cite web | url=http://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2006/060724e.pdf#page=8 | title=Consolidated financial highlights | accessdate=2007-01-25 | date=[[2006-07-24]] | format=PDF | publisher=Nintendo Co., Ltd. | pages=9}}</ref>
| 9.24 || 5.90 || 6.13
! 21.27
|-
! [[2006-09-30]]<ref name="earnings release Q3 2006">{{cite web | url=http://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2006/061026e.pdf#page=28 | title=Consolidated financial highlights | accessdate=2007-01-25 | date=[[2006-10-26]] | format=PDF | publisher=Nintendo Co., Ltd. | pages=28}}</ref>
| 11.52 || 7.51 || 7.79
! 26.82
|-
! [[2006-12-31]]<ref name="earnings release Q4 2006">{{cite web | url=http://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2007/070125e.pdf#page=6 | title=Consolidated Financial Highlights | accessdate=2007-01-25 | date=[[2007-01-25]] | format=PDF | publisher=Nintendo Co., Ltd. | pages=8 }}</ref>
| 14.43 || 10.18 || 11.00
! 35.61
|-
! [[2007-03-31]]<ref name="earnings release Q1 2007">{{cite web | url=http://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2007/070426e.pdf#page=21 | title=Consolidated Financial Highlights | accessdate=2007-04-26 | date=[[2007-04-26]] | format=PDF | publisher=Nintendo Co., Ltd. | pages=8 }}</ref>
| 16.02 || 11.74 || 12.52
! 40.29
|-
! [[2007-06-30]]<ref name="earnings release Q2 2007">{{cite web | url=http://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2007/070725e.pdf#page=8 | title=Consolidated Financial Highlights | accessdate=2007-07-25 | date=[[2007-07-25]] | format=PDF | publisher=Nintendo Co., Ltd. | pages=8 }}</ref>
| 18.11 || 14.14 || 15.03
! 47.27
|-
! [[2007-09-30]]<ref name="earnings release Q3 2007">{{cite web | url=http://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2007/071025e.pdf#page=22 | title=Consolidated Financial Highlights | accessdate=2007-10-25 | date=[[2007-10-25]] | format=PDF | publisher=Nintendo Co., Ltd. | pages=22}}</ref>
| 19.71 || 16.06 || 17.88
! 53.64
|-
! [[2007-12-31]]<ref name="earnings release Q4 2007">{{cite web | url=http://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2008/080124e.pdf#page=8 | title=Consolidated Financial Highlights | accessdate=2007-01-24 | date=[[2007-01-24]] | format=PDF | publisher=Nintendo Co., Ltd. | pages=8}}</ref>
| 21.66 || 20.18 || 22.94
! 64.79
|-
! [[2008-03-31]]<ref name="earnings release Q1 2008">{{cite web |url=http://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2008/080424e.pdf#page=22 |format=[[PDF]] |accessdate=2008-04-24 |date=2008-04-24 |title=Consolidated Financial Statements |publisher=Nintendo Co., Ltd. |pages=22}}</ref>
| 22.38 || 22.39 || 25.82
! 70.60
|}
The system's promotional slogans revolve around the word "Touch" in almost all countries, with the US slogan being "Touching is good." The Nintendo DS is currently seen by many analysts to be in the same market as [[Sony]]'s [[PlayStation Portable]], although representatives from both companies have said that each system targets a different audience.{{Fact|date=October 2007}} At the time of its release in the United States, the Nintendo DS retailed for US $149.99. The price dropped to US$129.99 on [[August 21]] [[2005]], one day before the anticipated North American releases of ''[[Nintendogs]]'' and ''[[Advance Wars: Dual Strike]]''. At one point, [[Time (magazine)|''Time'' magazine]] awarded the DS with a Gadget of the Week award.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.time.com/time/business/article/0,8599,1204187,00.html | title=Time Magazine: Gadget of the Week | accessdate=2007-02-01}}</ref>
Nine official colors of the Nintendo DS were available through standard retailers. Titanium (silver and black) were available worldwide, Electric Blue was exclusive to North and Latin America. There was also a red version of the DS which was bundled with the game Mario Kart DS. Graphite Black, Pure White, Turquoise Blue and Candy Pink were available in Japan. Mystic Pink and Cosmic Blue were available in Australia and New Zealand. Japan's Candy Pink and Australia's Cosmic Blue were also available in Europe and North America through a ''Nintendogs'' bundle, although the colors are just referred to as pink and blue; however, these colors were only available for the original style Nintendo DS; a different and more-limited set of colors have been used for the Nintendo DS Lite.
On [[October 3]] [[2006]] Nintendo announced a 20.5% raise in net profit forecast partially attributed to strong DS sales.<ref name="ds-sales-10/06">{{cite web | url=http://ds.ign.com/articles/736/736992p1.html | title=DS Improves Nintendo's Forecast | author=Daemon Hartfield | publisher=[[IGN]] |date=2006-10-03 | accessdate=2007-10-04}}</ref> The company also raised its estimated DS sales forecast by 18%.<ref name="ds-sales-10/06" />
On [[July 25]] [[2007]] Nintendo announced in its first quarter financial report that it had increased DS hardware shipments from 22 million to 26 million.<ref name="nintendo-Q108">{{cite web | url=http://wii.ign.com/articles/807/807852p1.html | title=Nintendo Sales Update | author=Matt Casamassina | publisher=[[IGN]] |date=2007-07-25 | accessdate=2007-10-04}}</ref> Nintendo also raised its DS software sales projection from 130 million units to 140 million.<ref name="nintendo-Q108" /> On [[October 26]] [[2007]], Nintendo announced an increase in DS hardware shipments to 28 million and software to 165 million.{{Fact|date=October 2007}}
As of [[September 26]] [[2007]], the Nintendo DS has sold over 50 million units and is the fastest-selling [[handheld game console]] of all time.<ref name="50million">{{cite web | url=http://www.tech.co.uk/home-entertainment/gaming/handhelds/news/nintendo-ds-shoots-past-50-million-mark | title=Nintendo DS shoots past 50 million mark | accessdate=2007-10-02 | author=James Rivington |date=2007-09-26 | publisher=Tech.co.uk}}</ref> On [[October 30]] [[2007]], [[Chart-Track]] reported DS sales of over 4 million in the United Kingdom.<ref>[http://www.mcvuk.com/news/28731/DS-hits-four-million-in-UK DS hits four million in UK - www.mcvuk.com<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref><ref>[http://uk.gamespot.com/news/6181947.html UK DS sales hit 4 million - DS News at GameSpot<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> In November 2007, [[Media Create]] reported DS sales of 20 million in Japan.<ref>[http://au.ds.ign.com/articles/835/835823p1.html?RSSwhen2007-11-16_074300&RSSid=835823 IGN: Twenty Million DS Systems in Japan<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref><ref>[http://kotaku.com/gaming/nintendo-ds/japan-one-in-six-have-a-ds-323894.php Japan: One In Six Have A DS<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>
During the week of [[November 18]] to [[November 24]], Nintendo of America set a new Nintendo sales record by selling over 653,000 DS units in one week, breaking the previous record held by the Game Boy Advance, which sold 600,000 units.<ref>[http://www.gamesindustry.biz/content_page.php?aid=31018 DS sales smash Game Boy Advance record // GamesIndustry.biz<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>
On [[November 27]] [[2007]], Nintendo announced that the DS has set a new weekly hardware sales record in the UK, with over 191,000 units sold, according to Chart-Track; breaking the previous record held by the PSP, which sold 185,000 units in its first week of availability in the UK.<ref>[http://www.mcvuk.com/news/28991/DS-sets-new-UK-sales-record DS sets new UK sales record - www.mcvuk.com<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>
As of [[December 27]] [[2007]], the DS has sold over 1 million units in South Korea, according to Nintendo of Korea.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.dsfanboy.com/2008/01/10/korea-buys-one-million-dses-throws-massive-party/ | title=Korea buys one million DSes, throws massive party |author=Chris Greenhough | publisher=DS Fanboy |date=2008-01-10 |accessdate=2008-01-22}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://japanese.yonhapnews.co.kr/itscience/2008/01/09/0600000000AJP20080109001700882.HTML |title=ニンテンドーDS、国内販売100万台突破 |accessdate=2008-01-22 |author= |date=2008-01-09 |work= |publisher=YONHAP NEWS |language=Korean}}</ref>
As of [[January 1]] [[2008]], the Nintendo DS has sold 17.65 million units in the United States according to [[NPD Group]]<ref>{{cite web | url=http://kotaku.com/346301/whos-winning-the-console-war-in-the-us | title=Who's Winning The Console War In The US? | author=Michael McWhertor | publisher=[[Kotaku]] | accessdate=2008-01-19 | date=2008-01-18}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gamedaily.com/articles/news/npd-us-video-game-industry-totals-1794-billion-halo-3-tops-all/19119/?biz=1 |title=NPD: U.S. Video Game Industry Totals $17.94 Billion, Halo 3 Tops All |accessdate=2008-01-19 |author=James Brightman |date=2008-01-17 |publisher=GameDaily}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=17006 | title=NPD: 2007 U.S. Game Industry Growth Up 43% To $17.9 Billion | author=Brandon Boyer | publisher=[[Gamasutra]] | accessdate=2008-01-19 | date=2008-01-18}}</ref> and 21,105,472 in Japan according to [[Enterbrain]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.mcvuk.com/news/29249/SPECIAL-REPORT-Japans-2007-market-stats-in-full |title=SPECIAL REPORT: Japan’s 2007 market stats in full |accessdate=2008-02-02 |author=Neil Long |date=2008-01-07 |work=[[Market for Home Computing and Video Games]] |publisher=}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=16914 |title=Wii Sports Named Best Selling Game Of 2007 In Japan|author=Jenkins, David |date=2008-01-11 |publisher=[[Gamasutra]] |accessdate=2008-02-02}}</ref>
On [[January 24]], [[2008]], Nintendo Europe has revealed the DS has sold over 20 million units in Europe.<ref>[http://www.gamesindustry.biz/content_page.php?aid=32396 Nintendo sells 6 million Wii, 20 million DS units in Europe // GamesIndustry.biz<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>
On [[January 30]], [[2008]], Nintendo Australia announced the DS has sold over 1 million units in [[Australia]]. <ref>{{cite web | url=http://vooks.net/modules.php?module=article&id=12541 | title=DS, Wii reach new milestones Down Under |author=Daniel Vuckovic | publisher=Vooks |date=2008-01-30 |accessdate=2008-01-30}}</ref>
As of [[March 30]] [[2008]], the Nintendo DS has sold 22,169,761 units in Japan according to [[Famitsu]]/Enterbrain.<ref >{{cite web |url=http://kotaku.com/375495/japanese-people-love-nintendo-software |title=Japanese People Love Nintendo Software |author=Brian Ashcraft |date=2008-04-03 |work=[[Kotaku]] |publisher=[[Gawker Media]] |accessdate=2008-04-19}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.famitsu.com/game/news/1214483_1124.html |title=2007年度のゲーム市場は6769億5000万円、前年度比103.8パーセントの伸びを記録 |language=Japanese |date=2008-04-03 |work=[[Famitsu]] |publisher=[[Enterbrain]] |accessdate=2008-04-19}}</ref>
As of [[June]], [[2008]], The Nintendo DS has sold over 20 million units in the [[U.S.A]], according to [[NPD Group]]. <ref>http://www.dsfanboy.com/2008/06/13/may-npd-buoyant/</ref>
===Special editions and promotional packages===
{{Mergefrom|Special versions of the Nintendo DS|date=December 2007}}
{{main|Special versions of the Nintendo DS}}
Many special editions and promotional packages have been available for the Nintendo DS, starting with the first Nintendo DS bundle of a ''[[Metroid Prime Hunters]]'' demo version, which was included in the first line-up of US shipments. Other adjustments have been made to the DS / DS Lite including color and laser engravings made for promotional events. For example, during the release of ''[[Mario Kart DS]]'' in North America, a "Red Hot DS Bundle" was available, which was a red colored Nintendo DS, with the game ''Mario Kart DS'' packaged along with it.
The first Nintendo DS Lite promotional package was released in a very limited run as a promotional item at the world premiere of ''[[Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End]]'' on [[May 23]] [[2007]]. This package included a DS console with pirate graphics on the case, and the game pack of the same name. The first Nintendo DS Lite retail bundle became available in North America on [[August 21]] [[2007]]; it included ''[[Brain Age 2: More Training in Minutes a Day!]]'', a DS Lite carrying case, and an exclusive color DS Lite. The DS Lite has a crimson top outer casing, and the rest of the DS is matte black.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.nintendo.com/newsarticle?articleid=p6YV_H74y2x8JQibfas6FxvBRZAW42VD | title=New Nintendo DS Color Comes Bundled with Brain Age 2 | publisher=[[Nintendo]] | accessdate=2007-08-09 |date=2007-08-08}}</ref>
==Nintendo DS Lite==
{{main|Nintendo DS Lite}}
[[Image:DSLite white trans.png|thumb|150px|The Nintendo DS Lite.]]
The Nintendo DS Lite is a slimmer, more lightweight redesign of the original Nintendo DS model. It was announced on [[January 26]] [[2006]], more than a month before its first territorial launch in Japan on [[March 2]] [[2006]].<ref name="reggie_interview">{{cite web | author=Peter Rojas |date=2006-02-20 | url=http://www.engadget.com/2006/02/20/the-engadget-interview-reggie-fils-aime-executive-vice-preside/ | title=The Engadget Interview: Reggie Fils-Aime, Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Nintendo | publisher=Engadget | language=English | accessdate=2006-06-01}}</ref>
The features and capabilities are the same as the original style DS, but the DS Lite has four levels of LCD screen brightness; however, the four levels do not include a level where the backlight is off, thus making the system more vulnerable to glare. Unlike the casing of the original style DS, the DS Lite has a shiny glossy semi-transparent outside casing. The LED battery and charging light indicators have been moved to the upper right-hand corner of the unit, making it viewable regardless of whether the system is open or closed. The "start" and "select" buttons have been moved to the lower right-hand side of the touchscreen, the microphone has been moved to the direct center of the opened device, and the A, B, X, Y, and D-Pad seem to have been designed to match the [[Wii]] and [[Game Boy Micro]].<ref name="dslite-style">{{cite web | url=http://ds.ign.com/articles/693/693455p1.html | title=DS Lite Hands-on | author=Craig Harris | publisher=[[IGN]] |date=2006-03-03 | accessdate=2007-10-04}}</ref> The power button above the D-pad was removed and replaced with a switch placed on the right side of the unit. Another improvement is the longer and thicker stylus, significantly reducing the amount of hand cramps as its users use it extensively throughout game play; the stylus holster was moved from the top of the unit to the right side. Although a loop for a wrist strap was retained on the top of the unit, the DS Lite does not ship with a wrist strap. Along with the other advancements, the [[Game Boy]] port of the DS Lite is shorter than the original style DS's port. When inserted, the [[Game Boy Advance]] cartridge protrudes out approximately 1 cm from under the unit. Also, the charger connector is smaller, so a different charger must be used. Although the connector is similar in form factor to the [[Game Boy Micro]], their AC adapters are not cross compatible. It also comes with a dust-protector for the GBA slot which also provides a seamless surface.
==Software development==
To be accepted into Nintendo's official developer support program, companies must have a game development team and adequate experience in certain areas. Additional information is available from the [http://www.warioworld.com Nintendo Software Development Support Group].
Alternatively, anyone can use publicly available knowledge from sites such as NDSTech,<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.bottledlight.com/ds/index.php/Main/HomePage | title=NDSTech - The homebrew Nintendo DS(TM) technical reference | accessdate=2006-04-03}}</ref> and tools to create their own programs. There are two development routes. One requires a method for running Nintendo DS programs from the Game Boy Advance port. At least five methods are available for this option: [[PassMe]], PassMe2, [[WiFiMe]], [[FlashMe]], and NoPass. The second option is to use second-generation flashcards, which are simply either writable DS game cards or DS game cards with Micro-SD slots.
==See also==
{{portal|Nintendo}}
*[[List of Nintendo DS games]]
*[[List of Nintendo DS Wi-Fi Connection games]]
*[[List of handhelds with Wi-Fi connectivity]]
{{clear}}
==References==
{{reflist|2}}
==External links==
<!--IF YOU HAVE A LINK THAT YOU WANT ADDED TO THIS SECTION, PLEASE VISIT THE TALK PAGE FOR DISCUSSION AND APPROVAL.-->
* [http://www.nintendods.com Official Nintendo DS website]
* [http://www.touchgenerations.com/ Touch! Generations]
* [http://www.nintendowifi.com/global/getRegion.do Official Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection website]
{{Nintendo hardware|DS}}
{{dedicated video game handheld consoles}}
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[[Category:Handheld game consoles]]
[[Category:Wi-Fi devices]]
[[Category:2004 introductions]]
[[Category:2005 introductions]]
[[Category:Backward compatible video game consoles]]
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