New 3DS and 3DS XL models incoming – improved screens, new buttons, second stick, NFC built in

The latest Nintendo Direct just dropped a megaton on us, two new Nintendo 3DS models – a new design for the normal 3DS and a new 3DS XL model with many tweaks. Mr Iwata returned to us with a bang!

The new models are called, well they’re still called Nintendo 3DS and 3DS LL (or XL as we know it). However the new models have significant upgrades not only to the look of the machines, the screens but also the internals including the CPU.

Firstly, the look of the machines are now much closer together with the design of the current 3DS XL mostly sticking around but also being shrunk to the normal 3DS size.

Starting with the inside, the guts of the machine, the CPU has been upgraded and now runs a lot faster. This will mean that some new games, like the newly announced Xenoblade Chronicles will only come to the new system. Browing the eShop, Miiverse and the web browser will be easier with the added power of this new CPU. The browser has also been improved and now support HTML5 video.

The system also promises faster downloads, presumably there’s new Wi-Fi technology inside to achieve this. Speaking of all things wireless the system will now include NFC built in and is hidden behind the bottom screen. No extra accessory needed for your new Amiibo’s. There’s also a new ability to back up your system to a computer, but no further details were given.

From the outside things are familiar, but there’s some big changes on board. First up there’s a new analogue stick on the right side of the system. It’s more of a nub really and will allow for camera control. It essentially emulates what the Circle Pad Pro did for the older model. On the top of the system there are now 4 sets of triggers instead of just two as well. The ABXY buttons on both systems get some colour too, the normal 3DS gets SNES inspired coloured buttons while the XL gets the colours but just on the buttons text.

The new models also feature brand new 3D screens with improved clarity, brightness and viewing angle for the 3D effect. The system now has a gyroscope in it which can ‘head track’ you an keep the 3D effect constant on many more angles.

Both the new models have also had their SD card slots moved to behind the battery cover. Battery life is slightly better but only by about half an hour at the top end. They also now support MicroSD cards instead saving on space.

The power button has moved to the bottom of the system along with the stylus holder. The charger remains the same.

The smaller model can now have faceplates switched out if you wish. These will be sold in Japan for 1000Yen each or about $10. There was many designs featured and you can mix and match. The faceplates do not work on the new 3DS XL.

The systems will launch in Japan on October 11th, a western release hasn’t been confirmed as of  yet.

Nintendo has confirmed the system will launch in Japan only this year;

[quote]As for the overseas markets, our local subsidiaries will separately confirm. However, there will be no U.S. and European launches this calendar year.[/quote]

Well that’s a shame.

So will you be buying any of the new models when given the chance or are you happy with the current model?

Update: Nintendo Australia have given us the following statement in regards to New Nintendo 3DS availability in Australia.

[quote]Different territories make their own business decisions regarding individual products and timing. We will announce more details regarding the launch of this product in Australia and New Zealand in the future.[/quote]