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Nintendo To Launch New Machine Next Year?
EvilDonut writes "According to Bloomberg.com, Nintendo intends to launch a new machine in Japan next year, in order "to boost sales". There are no details as to wether the machine will be hand-held or not, but Bloomberg does describe it as a next-generation console. This is pretty odd, as Nintendo has previously stated that the GameCube successor wouldn't be out until 2005, and the GBA is doing so well that I can't imagine they'll replace it as early as next year. The article also mentions the Nintendo iQue, so it's pretty clear this is not just a mix-up regarding the new, China-only system." Update: 11/13 23:44 GMT by S : GameSpot has a very cryptic clarification from Nintendo, that "the new product will be a unique item that is different from any traditional machine", and will be "be [neither] a home console nor a portable machine."
That was my guess too - but I'm leaning more towards the next Gameboy to be a Gamecube-on-a-chip. Notice the Sony PSP using 6cm 1.8Gb cds - notice the Gamecube using 6cm 1.6Gb cds. That's why the cube used them from the beginning - building up to the same hardware being used in a portable. Instant selection of great games at launch aswell.
The cube hardware is being sold (at a profit, most certainly) for $99. Expect Nintendo to be able to buy cheap displays - and off you go.
it's in my head