Nintendo Files Patent for Handheld Device

Single screen with touch interface.

By Alex Osborn

Nintendo has filed a patent for what appears to be a new handheld device.

The patent, which was filed with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (spotted by Twitter user ZhugeEX), is for a "handheld information processing apparatus" that has a single screen and some sort of touch interface. The unit also has built-in speakers that emit sound from the ends of the device, as well as a vibration system to provide a "higher sense of immersion."

Figures showcasing handheld unit and speaker system

Several other images are contained in the patent, including one showcasing a game screen that features a button overlay, as well as one image for weapon selection, and another for text input.

Figures showcasing game screen and weapon select interface

Another design included in the patent showcases a handheld unit that has Nintendo's traditional ABXY button layout, as well as a circle pad and d-pad.

Handheld unit with traditional button layout

Nintendo is planning to release its next console, codenamed NX, in March 2017. While the company has yet to detail what form the device will take, president Tatsumi Kimishima has said it will offer a "new way of playing games" and won't be a "pure replacement for the Wii U."

While some have speculated Nintendo is working on a brand-new handheld, prior rumors suggest Nintendo NX could be a console/handheld hybrid device that may use cartridges instead of discs.

Alex Osborn is a freelance writer for IGN. You can follow him on Twitter and subscribe to him on YouTube.

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