Nintendo DSi

Manufacturer	Nintendo
Type	Handheld
Generation	Seventh
Media	DS and DSi Game cards
Storage	Cartridge save, 256 MB of internal memory
Connectivity	Wi-Fi and local wireless
Online Service	Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection, LAN
Release Date	JP November 1, 2008 AU April 2, 2009 EU April 3, 2009 US April 5, 2009
Top Game	Flipnote Studio
Compatibility	Nintendo DS
Predecessor	Nintendo DS

The Nintendo DSi is a modification of the Nintendo DS.

Features

Differences from the Nintendo DS

This DSi's primary new features are the inclusion of two 0.3 megapixel cameras facing toward and away from the user. An SD Card can be inserted on the right side of the DSi. The lights indicating battery strength and whether or not the system is charging have been moved to the left hinge with the addition of a third light indicating WiFi strength. Much like the Wii there is a customizable menu screen where one can move around built-in and downloaded applications and games. Unlike the Wii's 4x4 channel grid, the DSi's menu is a single straight line. Also unlike the Wii, the slot for the inserted game is able to be moved.

Other improved functions include the screens, which are 0.25 inches larger then that of the original and Lite models, covered by a slick matte finish. The power button is a circular button on the bottom left of the Touch Screen rather then a rectangular button on the upper right or a power switch on the right side. The power button must be held down in order to shut down the system, if it's quickly pressed it will rest back to the menu screen. Furthermore when changing system settings or exiting Pictochat, the system does not need to reset before using it again. This also allows for hot swapping games while the system is still on. Sound quality has improved slightly with the help of better speakers. There are now five settings of brightness as opposed to the DS Lite's four.

The DSi does have a few drawbacks however. The most noticeable difference is the lack of a Game Boy Advance slot rendering the DSi unable to play any games from that library as well as DS games that utilized the slot such as Guitar Hero: World Tour. The battery length also takes a hit from the DS's with a difference of 5 hours, give or take depending on the brightness setting.

Backwards Compatiblity

The Nintendo DSi lacks a second slot like it's predecessors rendering it unable to play Game Boy Advance games as well as DS games that utilized the second slot to enhance the experience. Regardless, the DSi is compatible with every other existing DS game, including ones from different regions.

Designs

Nintendo DSi

The Nintendo DSi is the first and smaller design of the DSi sub-family. It's lighter weight and shape makes it more portable. All other additions are noted above.

See Also

• List of Nintendo's DSiWare Games
• Comprehensive Release List of all DSiWare games

• [Review of new Nintendo DSi]