Nintendo announce two ‘new’ 3DS models

During a Japanese-exclusive Nintendo Direct briefing over the weekend, Nintendo announced two new, updated models of its 3DS handhelds. Known as the New 3DS and New 3DS XL, these new devices feature a second analogue stick, two additional shoulder buttons, an improved processor, better stereoscopic 3D and a removable back.

By Alex Choros

During a Japanese-exclusive Nintendo Direct briefing over the weekend, Nintendo announced two new, updated models of its 3DS handhelds. Known as the New 3DS and New 3DS XL, these new devices feature a second analogue stick, two additional shoulder buttons, an improved processor, better stereoscopic 3D and a removable back.

In addition, the updated portables have integrated NFC. This will primarily be used to support Nintendo’s upcoming Skylander-esque Amiibo toy line, and will remove the need for a separate accessory to zap them into games.