Nintendo 3DS to Get Netflix Streaming, AT&T Wi-Fi Hotspots

Posted 03/03/2011 at 6:12am | by Paul Lilly

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Turns out Nintendo's upcoming 3DS handheld console has a few more tricks up its sleeve. In addition to a 3D display -- the 3DS's flagship feature -- Nintendo announced two upcoming collaborations, one with AT&T that will allow the 3DS to automatically connect to more than 10,000 AT&T Wi-Fi hotspots, and another with Netflix to stream movies and other content on the gaming device. Suddenly the 3DS looks a lot more appealing.

"There is great potential to increase the number of people who enjoy video games by opening up new game-play opportunities that are only available through the use of 3D," Iwata said. "Nintendo 3DS will be the most connected Nintendo device ever, with its ability to link people via local wireless connections, while at the same time connecting them to people and content worldwide via hotspot connectivity."

The 3DS launches March 27 in the U.S. at $250. Gamers will get their 3D groove on without any special 3D glasses or other peripheral hardware. But at $250, some gamers have criticized the price point, particularly as 3D has yet to win over the masses. That could change with the 3DS.

Nintendo also announced the development of a new 3D Super Mario game. The game is being developed by the same team responsible for Super Mario Galaxy and Super Mario Galaxy 2 for the Will.