Click to enlarge

Other minor adjustments include the ability for music playback, wireless (for non-gaming uses), and a larger screen.

Ironically the ability to share data brings it into line with the ability of the PS3 and PS2 to share with the PSP, yet Nintendo's offerings have still outsold the Sony consoles even though the former – up until the new release – is underspecced compared to its rival.

The new unit is not expected to cost more than its current incarnation, but that will all be revealed in the near future. Nikkei states that Ninetendo are wanting a pre-Christmas release for the DS, so it shouldn't be too far from arriving at our shores.

A simultaneous press conference in San Francisco and Tokyo on Friday where more details will be released.