Nintendo announces a sleek white device that connects to your Wii….wait, an internet router?
In a surprise announcement through a recent Famitsu article, Nintendo revealed a new piece of hardware compatible with the Wii and DS – a wireless Internet router.
The router will be advertised in collaboration with Internet services and hopes to simplify the process of getting Nintendo consoles online. The device will also be fully compatible with computers and other wireless enabled devices.
The router will feature several modes which can be toggled via a switch on the back of the device. "Router" is the default option and will function like any other router, allowing you to connect your Wii or DS to the internet. The next option, "Bridge" will allow users to extend the signal of their existing router, perfect for those whose current router is too far from their Wii for a reliable connection. Finally "Auto," though not entirely clear from the article, will seemingly be able to switch between networks automatically.
The release of an official Nintendo branded router may appear strange, but due to the recent discontinuation of the Nintendo Wi-Fi USB Connector this seems to be a more useful replacement. Being a router, the previous issues with the Nintendo Wi-Fi USB Connector regarding platform will no longer be an issue.
The router will sell exclusively on Nintendo's online store for 5,800 Yen (~$54) and will be available starting September 18 in Japan.