New Nintendo DS Lite at E3?

Famitsu publisher Hirokazu Hamamura today fueled speculation by suggesting that Nintendo is likely to introduce a new version of its DS handheld. Although not pointing to sources, Hamamura points to murmurings in the industry as well as historical evidence as signs of the replacement: the Japanese game maker has released at least one new or revamped handheld every two years and last did so in 2006 with the DS Lite, according to the magazine chief.

Nintendo itself hasn't denied the claim but declines to comment on the Famitsu story. The console maker "has nothing to say at this time," according to a spokesperson.

Few if any details have surfaced about a possible replacement for the dual-screen system, whose fundamental design has remained in place since 2004 and was primarily slimmed down with its 2006 refresh. Most speculation has centered around adding media functions, such as dedicated audio and video playback as well as an additional slot for removable storage.

E3 is currently scheduled for mid-July. [via Joystiq]

Filed under: gaming, gadgets
Other story tags: Nintendo, DS Lite