The 3rd generation DS console, the Nintendo DSi was released on April 5, 2009 on Amazon. com. There’s a few features that make it not the same as its predecessor, the Nintendo DS Lite. The following is a quick overview:

1. Two Digital Cameras.

You will not be upgrading your Nikon or Canon with your NIntendo DS. The machine has two cameras–one on the inner flap for taking snap shots of yourself (how’s that for modesty) and one on the outer flap for taking snap shots of other people and objects. The quality of the pictures aren’t spectacular and would be comparable in quality to photos taken with your mobile phone.

A great feature of the DSi is an application that lets you draw on your pictures with the stylus and kind of enjoying them. There’s also a couple of games that incorporate the photo feature.

2. DSi Audio Application

Due to popular demand from DS Lite consumers the DSi features the ability to play music along with record sound using the microphone. You also have the choice of listening to music saved on a SD card with headsets when the screen is closed.

But the DSi doesn’t play MP3 files, it plays AAC formatted songs. It does not really work the same way as an Ipod, but you can pretend to be a song developer and manipulate the tempo, voice, and pitch of your recordings to form your own unique creations.

3. Internet Browser.

The Internet capabilities connect you to the DSi store so you can download new games and applications to your console as soon as they become available.


If you’re familiar with WiiWare for the Wii, DSiWare is very similar. As for browsing other websites, it’s still a little slow and clunky. You can download the Opera web browser which is available in the DSi store but it isn’t much better than the DSiWare browser that already comes loaded on the console.

Nintendo DSi Pros and Cons
Before you make your final purchase decision, here’s a quick run down of the pros and cons of the DSi when compared to the DS Lite:

PROS

1. Ability to download games via the web browser and DSiWare creates lots of potential for future potential and updates.
2. SD slot enables you to store additional music files and photos. If you want to display some of your crazy photo creations online or print them out you can upload them to your computer.
3. Larger and brighter screen than the DS Lite.

CONS

1. The DSi does not have the ability to play GameBoy Advance games. If you’re a Guitar Hero fan, this could be a total bummer. However, if more games are added to the DSi Store as promised, this could become a moot point eventually.
2. Larger and brighter screen creates a shorter battery life.
3. Sure, it has a web browser but how good is it? And yes–you do need your own wireless connection to use it!
4. The photos you take only really look good on the DSi screen.

Also, don’t forget that with the release of the new DSi there will be plenty of cheap Nintendo DS Lite consoles to be found online. Now may be a good time to buy if you’re interested in purchasing a new unit.