The Nintendo 3DS was released into one of the most interesting climates for handheld games and electronics to date. Countless companies were beginning to blur the lines between smartphones, handheld gaming systems, tablet PCs, and a number of other portable gadgets. Due to this, Nintendo had to provide a device that not only stayed true to the Nintendo brand, but also provided an amazing new feature: 3D graphics. Very few companies have been able to come close to this advancement, and that is why many customers have turned to this exciting product.
Physical Layout
The basic Nintendo 3DS screen measures 5.3 x 2.9 x 0.83 inches, just larger than the previous DS and more comparable to larger smartphones. The weight is comfortable, with even small children able to enjoy extended play. The device also comes with a charging cradle, stylus, 2GB SD memory card, and manual.
The upper screen of the 3DS is a wide-screen LCD with over 16.77 million colors. It also has an 800 x 400 resolution and it is the screen with the 3D technology enabled. The lower screen, a touchscreen, also runs at 16.77 million colors but it is just 320 x 240 pixels; even with a lower resolution, the lower screen is still clear enough for the features that are shown. There are one inner-facing and two outer-facing cameras that can be used to simply take pictures or carry out a number of functions in the games. The two outer-facing cameras make augmented reality games possible; the two cameras give the perception of depth, so that objects on the screen appear as if they were actually present in your surroundings.
3D Technology
The highlight of the Nintendo 3DS is the 3D display without the need for headgear. While there are a number of companies that have duplicated 3D technology on handheld devices, very few have portrayed as high quality 3D images without headgear, like glasses at 3D movies. Another key point with the 3D technology is the ability of the user to modify the screen. There is a slider on the side of the screen that allows the user to adjust the depth of field or turn the 3D off entirely. In addition to playing 3D games, the two outward facing cameras also allow owners to take fully 3D pictures at any time with over 300,000 active pixels.
New Features
One thing that Nintendo has become known for is not resting on their laurels, and the 3DS is no exception. Instead of simply releasing the 3DS and hoping that the headgear-free technology would be enough to make sales, they decided to further their market appeal with some useful additions to this device. The 3DS boasts a number of changes that put it into direct competition with smartphones and tablet PCs. This includes wifi, internal gryo sensors, a motion sensor, a microphone, a touchscreen, and upwards of 5 hours of battery life, depending on one’s style of play.
Nintendo has also included two of its most popular features, SpotPass and StreePass. SpotPass allows owners to leave their wifi on and collect special items or perks within their games. This can be turned on and off at any time and the use of wifi can quickly be checked by the glowing LED indicator. StreetPass is another interesting touch, as the 3DS will give out a short-range signal to any other 3DSs in the area. Users can share basic information, swap items, or even challenge one another to games.
Nintendo 3DS
The Nintendo 3DS is definitely a step up from all other Nintendo handheld devices and is one of the top choices for customers looking for a multi-functional gadget to take with them.
Byline
Daniel Farthington is a freelance writer focusing on cell phones, computer software, computer accessories, gadgetry, futuristic technology and other kindred subjects; kensington.com has loads of computer accessories for those looking to enhance their computing experience, including kensington laptop stands.