DS Re-Design Coming In Spring?

According to a report by one of our Japanese correspondents, weekly publication Famitsu is already speculating the release of a remodeled Nintendo DS system by this spring.

The essence of the possibility of a re-design came directly from comments made by Reggie Fils-Aime last month. Fils-Aime had apparently discussed the possibility of a stylized version of the Nintendo DS as being a good idea.

The entire ordeal makes complete sense, especially with the DS’ sell-out sales numbers in Japan, in which Nintendo could easily take advantage of the constant popularity with a newer system.

DS Advanced has contacted several sources for comment on the situation, and will update this story as soon as we learn more.

UPDATED 1-11-06:

A couple of websites have already heard rumblings from Japanese correspondents regarding an imminent Nintendo DS re-design announcement as early as next week.

Our friends over at Lik-Sang have reported more on the speculation of a DS system re-design, as first brought up by Famitsu Weekly.

The online import store recently posted a news report with the following information:

“All signs however are pointing to an NDS: SP, and here at Lik Sang too we have received word a couple of days ago from a Japanese contact stating Nintendo will have a formal announcement of the re-design on Jan 16th. Stay tuned to Lik-Sang.com to see if this turns out to be genius or bogus! Meanwhile rumors on Spong.com suggest it’ll be a square clam-shell design, inspired by cell phones and allowing you to make free VoIP calls from any wireless hot spot.”

Even more unusual, internet message boards have also pointed towards a major Nintendo announcement this coming Monday, possibly concerning the Nintendo Revolution as well.

Of course, none of this is yet official, but this situation is certainly starting to heat up.

Stay tuned.

UPDATED 1-12-06:

Updating our previous report, always rumor-active gaming website SPOnG has updated their story with an official statement from a NOA representative.

Speaking to us today, Nintendo America spokesman JC Smith explained, “We have no announcement scheduled for the 16th. There may be a showing of product to retail, though that will comprise items already announced and in the public domain.”

The website also stated that their Japanese contacts have also denied claims of any sort of announcement coming Monday. Although the day is a national holiday for the USA, only time will tell on the validity of this less than likely announcement.

We’ll keep you updated.full game