El Segundo, Calif. – Sales of Nintendo’s new 3D handheld game
player, the 3DS, are expected to be strong this year, but levels are not
expected to match sales of the previous-generation DS platform, according to a new
.
The market research firm said the $250 3DS’s 3D graphics and “unique
approach to network services” should deliver an installed base of 11.6 million
units by the end of 2011.
“While this represents strong performance, growing competition
from the iPod, iPhone and Android smartphones and tablets will prevent the 3DS
from matching the sales of the previous-generation
handheld,” IHS said.
By 2015, IHS forecasts a global installed base of 70 million 3DS
devices. This compares with total sales of DS/DS Lite of 91 million at a
comparable point in its sales cycle.
“Nintendo’s accent on network services in the key U.S. market
represents an attempt to convince users to carry their 3DS systems with them at
all times and to engage with the platform everyday and in every place,” said
Piers Harding Rolls, lead games analyst at IHS. “This engagement strategy,
alongside 3D graphics, camera and video, is key to Nintendo competing with
upcoming devices from Sony and also from non-specialist smart phones,
entertainment devices and tablets, which offer a legitimate alternative to
handheld consoles.”
Among the connectivity features of the 3DS is StreetPass, a local
networking function that allows players to interact with one another through
their devices. Players are sent new challenges and content by other users that
are passing by. They also can exchange game data such as high scores and game
characters. The local network connectivity is meant to encourage users to carry
their 3DS with them on their travels and to instill some “magic” around the 3DS
community.
Nintendo also is highlighting SpotPass, a 3DS Wi-Fi capability
that enables connecting automatically to wireless local area networks and Wi-Fi
hotspots.
Nintendo will offer a nationwide deal with AT&T for 3DS user
access to more than 10,000 Wi-Fi hotspots, to obtain free content updates.
Another attraction to the device was a deal Nintendo struck with
Netflix allowing 3DS U.S. users to access Netflix online accounts to stream
movies and videos.
A Nintendo short-form-video service offering comedy and music
videos also will be made available through the device.
