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We call this new communication function, “SpotPass,” which realizes communications that you are not aware of.
When you put Nintendo 3DS into the sleep mode, it not only detects other Nintendo 3DS hardware for StreetPass but also searches for Wii-Fi access points near it. In accordance with your particular needs, for which you preset the system, Nintendo 3DS will send out and receive various information and content automatically.
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The data which can be exchanged by SpotPass include: New Ranking, New Ghost Data which, in Mario Kart, shows a shadow of the previous record run of a kart, and new free software. As for the new free software, it will not only be the notice of the availability of such free software, but your Nintendo 3DS will already be in a position to download the free software for your trial. In addition, messages from Nintendo and a variety of other information can be received.
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SpotPass requires a wireless Internet access point, and if people feel the settings for the connection are complicated, not everyone will readily be able to use this function. We have already made various efforts to increase the Internet connection ratios of Nintendo hardware, but the current situation is far from the situation where anyone can take advantage of such access.
For this new Nintendo 3DS service, SpotPass, to be expanded, Nintendo will try to expand the access points where SpotPass communications can be realized without the need for the users to bother themselves to do anything special on their Nintendo 3DS. -
Currently, more than 1000 video game retail outlets in Japan have a DS Station. We will gradually convert them into Nintendo Zones to begin with so that they can be used as the access points for SpotPass communications.
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McDonald's Company (Japan), Ltd., under collaboration with Nintendo, has been offering “DS at Mac” at their restaurants, where their customers with a Nintendo DS can enjoy various unique services. This service will also be available for Nintendo 3DS.
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We will also try to expand the access points from a different approach than Nintendo Zone.
Nintendo has been collaborating with NTT East and NTT West in our joint efforts to raise the Internet connection ratios of Wii and Nintendo DSi since November 2007. More specifically, together we have been offering to support our consumers to connect their Wii and Nintendo DSi to the Internet environment at their homes. As a result, certain favorable results have been yielded as far as the availability for the environment for Wii and Nintendo DSi’s Internet access is concerned.
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Today, I’d like to announce that Nintendo is also in collaboration with NTT East and NTT West so that Nintendo 3DS can use the Internet connection at the locations in Japan where they are offering the general public their Wi-Fine service, which is a useful information portal site operated by NTT BP.
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Starting from March 2011, there will be approximately 2000 locations in Japan where Nintendo 3DS can be used, such as the ones listed here: train stations, airport facilities, fast-food chains and cafeterias.
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Nintendo will further cement the collaborations with NTT East and NTT West so that, not only at our consumers’ houses but also outdoors, we can expand the environments where they can connect their Nintendo hardware with the Internet.
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With the new functions of Nintendo 3DS such as the ones that I shared with you today, as well as the new challenges Nintendo is making for itself and in collaboration with other companies, Nintendo proposes to you the new play style of “Carry Around, Affect Each Other and Something New Every Day.”
So that this “Something New Every Day” concept can be comprehended by anyone, by taking advantage of the “SpotPass” communication capability…
