Nintendo 3DS

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"3DS" redirects here. For other uses, see 3DS (disambiguation).
This article is about the Nintendo 3DS family of systems. For their revisions, see New Nintendo 3DS.
For the budget model, see Nintendo 2DS. For its revision, see New Nintendo 2DS XL.

Nintendo 3DS

An aqua Nintendo 3DS in the open position.

Also known as 3DS (abbreviation)

Developer Nintendo Research & Engineering

Manufacturer Nintendo, Foxconn

Type Handheld game console

Generation Eighth generation

Release date Nintendo 3DS:

  JP: February 26, 2011[2]

 EU: March 25, 2011[1]

 NA: March 27, 2011[3]

 AU: March 31, 2011[4]

Nintendo 3DS XL:

 JP: July 28, 2012

 EU: July 28, 2012

 NA: August 19, 2012

 AU: August 23, 2012

Lifespan 2011–present

Introductory  3DS: ¥25,000, US$249.99, A$349.95

price  3DS XL: ¥18,900, US$199.99, A$349.95

Units shipped All models combined: 75.45 million (as of

September 30, 2019)[5]

Media  Nintendo 3DS Game Card

 Nintendo DS Game Card

 Digital distribution

 SD/SDHC card

Operating Nintendo 3DS system software

system

CPU  Dual-core ARM11 MPCore @ 268 MHz

 Single-core ARM9

Memory 128 MB FCRAM, 6 MB VRAM (Fujitsu

MB82M8080-07L FC-RAM)

Storage 2 GB Toshiba eMMC

Removable  3DS: 2 GB SD card (included)

storage  3DS XL: 4 GB SDHC card (included)

 Cartridge save

Display 2 TN LCD screens[show]

Graphics DMP PICA200 @ 133 MHz

Sound Stereo speakers (pseudo-surround), microphone

 Input A/B/X/Y buttons, Circle Pad, L/R bumpers, D-pad,

3D depth slider, volume slider, wireless switch,

power button

Camera One user-facing and two forward-

facing VGA cameras

Connectivity 2.4 GHz 802.11b/g Wi-Fi, Infrared

Power  Nintendo 3DS:

 1300 mAh, 3.7 V lithium-ion battery

 Battery life[show]

 Nintendo 3DS XL:

 1750 mAh, 3.7 V lithium-ion battery

 Battery life[show]

Current 11.10.0-43

firmware

Online services Nintendo Network[show]

Dimensions Body[show]

Mass  3DS: 235 grams (8.3 oz)

 3DS XL: 336 grams (11.9 oz)

Best-selling Mario Kart 7, 18.26 million units

game (as of March 31, 2019)[6]

Backward Nintendo DS

compatibility

Predecessor Nintendo DS

Successor New Nintendo 3DS

Website www.nintendo.com/3ds

The Nintendo 3DS[a] is a handheld game console produced by Nintendo. It is capable of

displaying stereoscopic 3D effects without the use of 3D glasses or additional accessories. Nintendo
announced the console in March 2010 and officially unveiled it at E3 2010 on June 15.[7][8] The
console succeeds the Nintendo DS, featuring backward compatibility with older Nintendo DS video
games.[9] Its primary competitor was the PlayStation Vita from Sony.[10]
The handheld offers new features such as the StreetPass and SpotPass tag modes, powered
by Nintendo Network; augmented reality, using its 3D cameras; and Virtual Console, which allows
owners to download and play games originally released on older video game systems. It is also pre-
loaded with various applications including these: an online distribution store called Nintendo eShop,
 a social networking service called Miiverse (Miiverse has been shut down, and cannot be accessed
at this time.); an Internet Browser; the Netflix, Hulu Plus and YouTube streaming video
services; Nintendo Video; a messaging application called Swapnote (known as Nintendo Letter
Box in Europe and Australia); and Mii Maker.
The Nintendo 3DS was released in Japan on February 26, 2011, and worldwide beginning in March
2011.[11][12] Less than six months later on July 28, 2011, Nintendo announced a significant price
reduction from US$249 to US$169 amid disappointing launch sales.[13] The company offered ten
free Nintendo Entertainment System games and ten free Game Boy Advance games from
the Nintendo eShop to consumers who bought the system at the original launch price.[14] This
strategy was considered a major success, and the console went on to become one of Nintendo's
most successfully sold handheld consoles in the first two years of its release. As of September 30,
2018, the Nintendo 3DS family of systems combined have sold 75.45 million units.[15]
Several redesigns have been made since; the Nintendo 3DS XL, a larger model, first released in
Japan and Europe in July 2012, featuring a 90% larger screen.[16] An "entry-level" version of the
console, the Nintendo 2DS, with a fixed "slate" form factor and lacking autostereoscopic (3D)
functionality, was released in Western markets in October 2013.[17] The New Nintendo 3DS features
a more powerful CPU, a second analog stick called the C-Stick, additional buttons, an improved
camera, and other changes, and was first released in Japan in October 2014.[18][19]

Contents

 1History
o 1.1Background
o 1.2Development
o 1.3Announcement
o 1.4Pre-launch events
o 1.5Launch
o 1.6Larger model
o 1.7Later years
 2Hardware
o 2.1Input
o 2.2Game card
o 2.3Accessories
o 2.4Other models
 3Software
o 3.1Operating system
o 3.2Camera
o 3.3Sound
o 3.4Nintendo eShop
o 3.5Miiverse
o 3.6Internet browser
o 3.7Video services
o 3.8Swapnote
o 3.9Mii Maker
o 3.10Activity Log
o 3.11Other network features
 4Games
o 4.1Launch titles
o 4.2Augmented reality
 o 4.3Download Play
o 4.4Backward compatibility
o 4.5Non-gaming uses
 5Comparison
 6Reception
o 6.1Sales
o 6.2Health concerns
 7Legal issues
 8See also
 9Notes
 10References
 11External links

History
Background
Nintendo began experimenting with stereoscopic 3D video game technology in the 1980s.
The Famicom 3D System, an accessory consisting of liquid crystal shutter glasses, was Nintendo's
first product that enabled stereoscopic 3D effects. Although very few titles were released, Nintendo
helped design one—called Famicom Grand Prix II: 3D Hot Rally—which was co-developed by
Nintendo and HAL Laboratory and released in 1988. The Famicom 3D System failed to garner
market interest and was never released outside Japan.[20][21]
Despite the limited success, Nintendo would press ahead with 3D development into the
1990s. Gunpei Yokoi, creator of the Game Boy handheld console and popular Metroid video game,
developed a new 3D device for Nintendo called the Virtual Boy. It was a portable table-top system
consisting of goggles and a controller that used a spinning disc to achieve
full stereoscopic monochrome 3D.[22] Released in 1995, the Virtual Boy sold fewer than a million
units, spawning only 22 compatible game titles, and was widely considered to be a commercial
failure.[21][23] Shigeru Miyamoto, known for his work on popular game franchises such
as Mario and The Legend of Zelda, commented in a 2011 interview that he felt conflicted about
Yokoi's decision to use wire-frame models for 3D and suggested that the product may not have been
marketed correctly.[21] The failure of the Virtual Boy left many at Nintendo doubting the viability of 3D
gaming.[24] Despite this, Nintendo continued to investigate the incorporation of 3D technology into
other products.
The GameCube, released in 2001, is another 3D-capable system. With an LCD attachment, it could
display true stereoscopic 3D, though only the launch title Luigi's Mansion was ever designed to
utilize it. Due to the expensive nature of the requisite peripheral technology at the time, the
GameCube's 3D functionality was never marketed to the public. Nintendo later experimented with a
3D LCD during development of the Game Boy Advance SP, but the idea was shelved after it failed
to achieve satisfactory results. Another attempt was made in preparation for a virtual navigation
guide to be used on the Nintendo DS at Shigureden, an interactive museum in Japan.[25][26] Nintendo
president Hiroshi Yamauchi encouraged additional 3D research in an effort to use the technology in
the exhibition. Although the project fell short, Nintendo was able to collect valuable research on
liquid crystal which would later aid in the development of the Nintendo 3DS.[21]
Development
Speculation on the development of a successor to the Nintendo DS began in late 2009. At the time,
Nintendo controlled as much as 68.3 percent of the handheld gaming market.[27] In October
2009, tech tabloidBright Side of News reported that Nvidia, a graphics processing unit (GPU)
developer that recently made headway with its Tegra System-on-Chip processors, had been
selected by Nintendo to develop hardware for their next generation portable game console.[28] Later
that month, speaking about the future for Nintendo's portable consoles, company president Satoru
Iwata mentioned that while mobile broadband connectivity via subscription "doesn't fit Nintendo
customers", he was interested in exploring options like Amazon's Whispernet found on the Amazon
Kindle which provides free wireless connectivity to its customers for the sole purpose of browsing
and purchasing content from the Kindle Store.[29]
Nintendo had expressed interest in motion-sensing capabilities since the development of the original
Nintendo DS,[30] and an alleged comment by Satoru Iwata from a 2010 interview with Asahi
Shimbun implied that the successor to the Nintendo DS would incorporate a motion sensor. The
claim led to a minor dispute between the publication and Nintendo over its accuracy.[31] In February
2010, video gaming website Computer and Video Games reported that a select "handful" of
Japanese developers were in possession of software development kits for the Nintendo
DS successor, with The Pokémon Company given special priority. According to their insider at an
unspecified third-party development studio, the hardware features a "tilt" function that is similar to
that of the iPhone, "but does a lot more".[32]
Announcement
The Nintendo 3DS E3 2010unveiling involved an elaborate stage with moving set pieces.

A prototype Aqua Blue Nintendo 3DS shown at E3 2010; the circle pad was originally colored alongside the
console.

On March 23, 2010, Nintendo officially announced the Nintendo 3DS handheld console, successor
to the Nintendo DS family.[9] According to industry analysts, the timing of Nintendo's original
announcement, which had drawn attention away from the launch of the company's still-new Nintendo
DSi XL handheld, was likely intended to preempt impending news leaks about the product by the
Japanese press.[33] In April 2010, a picture of a possible development build of the internal
components of the 3DS was released as part of a U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
filing by Mitsumi.[34] An analysis of the image showed that it was likely genuine as it featured
components known to be used in the Nintendo DS line along with features of the 3DS that had not
been announced like a 5:3 top screen and a control nub similar to those used in Sony's PlayStation
Portable systems.[35]
In June 2010, video gaming website IGN reported that according to "several developers who have
experienced 3DS in its current form," the system possesses processing power that "far exceed[s] the
Nintendo Wii" and with 3D shaders, they could make games that "look close to current generation
visuals on the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3". IGN also cited "several developer sources" as saying
that the system does not use the Nvidia Tegra mobile chipset.[36]
The system was officially revealed at Nintendo's conference at E3 2010 on June 15, 2010. The first
game revealed was Kid Icarus: Uprising, with several other titles from third parties also announced,
including Square Enix with Kingdom Hearts and Final Fantasy, Konami with Metal Gear Solid 3:
Snake Eater 3D, Warner Bros. Interactive with a Batman title, Ubisoft with Assassin's Creed: Lost
Legacy, Capcom with Resident Evil: Revelations and Super Street Fighter IV: 3D Edition,
and Activision with DJ Hero. Other Nintendo titles were later revealed after the conference, such
as Mario Kart 7, Animal Crossing: New Leaf, and remakes of Star Fox 64[37] and The Legend of
Zelda: Ocarina of Time.[38] Nintendo also demoed 3D trailers for DreamWorks' How to Train Your
Dragon, Warner Bros' Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole, and Disney's
film Tangled on the 3DS.[39][40] The 3DS design shown at E3 was almost final, but subject to minor
changes.[41]
On September 29, 2010, Nintendo announced the release date of the Nintendo 3DS in Japan to be
on February 26, 2011. Furthermore, several additional features were announced: the inclusion of
a Mii Maker (similar to the Mii Channel on the Wii), Virtual Console (including Game Boy and Game
Boy Color), 3D Classics, a cradle for recharging the system's battery, multitasking, several included
augmented reality games, an included 2 GB SD card, and stored game data, as well as the final
names for the 3DS tag modes, StreetPass and SpotPass collectively. The colors available at launch
were revealed to be Aqua Blue and Cosmos Black, and the launch price in Japan was revealed to
be ¥25,000.[42] The final physical design was also revealed at this event.[43]
Pre-launch events
On January 19, 2011, Nintendo held two simultaneous press conferences in Amsterdam and New
York City, where it revealed all of the features of the Nintendo 3DS.[44] In North America, the release
date was confirmed as March 27, 2011 with a retail price of $249.99. In Europe, the release date
was announced as March 25, 2011, though Nintendo said that pricing would be up to retailers. Most
retailers have priced the handheld between £219.99 and £229.99,[45] though some retailers, such
as Amazon, lowered the price following Sony's announcement of the PSP's successor on January
26, 2011,[46] with some retailers pricing the handheld at around £200 in February.[47]
In February 2011, Nintendo held four hands-on events in the UK named "Believe Your Eyes".
February 5 and 6 saw simultaneous events in London and Manchester, while the 12th and 13th saw
events in Glasgow and Bristol. Invitations to the events were offered first to Club Nintendo members,
then later to members of the public via an online registration form.[48] Guests watched two brief
performances and trailers, then were given time to play a selection of games on 3DS devices.
Attendees were then allowed into a second room, containing further games to play
(mainly augmented reality-based) and in-device videos.[49] In March, Nintendo held a few events in
Australia at selected Westfield stores for people to try out the console, with a number of demos
available.
Launch
Further information: List of Nintendo 3DS colors and styles
The Nintendo 3DS launched in Japan on February 26, 2011, priced at ¥25,000. On March 25, 2011,
the system launched in Europe, with pricing set by individual retailers. On March 27, 2011 the
Nintendo 3DS launched in North America, priced at US$249.99. On March 31, 2011, the system
launched in Australia and New Zealand, priced at A$349.95. The system originally launched in all
regions in both Aqua Blue and Cosmo Black color variations.
On July 28, 2011, Nintendo announced the Nintendo 3DS would be getting a price cut of almost a
third of the console's original price, from $249.99 to $169.99 in North America, 25,000¥ to 15,000¥ in
Japan, and $349.95 to $249.95 in Australia. Although in Europe, pricing is up to retailers, the system
also received a substantial price cut.[50] In an effort to compensate those who had paid the original
price, the company introduced the Nintendo 3DS Ambassador Program, through which existing 3DS
owners were eligible (conditional that they must have accessed the Nintendo eShop at least once
prior to August 21) to download ten Nintendo Entertainment System games and ten Game Boy
Advance games at no extra cost.[51][52] Nintendo further stated that the NES Ambassador titles would
see future release to the general public on the Nintendo eShop, while there were no plans to make
the Game Boy Advance Ambassador titles available.[53] The ten NES games were released in North
America on August 31 and in Europe on September 1, 2011. These include: Balloon Fight, Donkey
Kong Jr., Ice Climber, Metroid, NES Open Tournament Golf, Super Mario Bros., The Legend of
Zelda, Wrecking Crew, Yoshi (North America) / Mario & Yoshi (Europe & Australia) and Zelda II: The
Adventure of Link.[54][55] The ten Game Boy Advance games were released in North America on
December 16, 2011. These include: F-Zero: Maximum Velocity, Fire Emblem: The Sacred
Stones, Kirby & The Amazing Mirror, Mario Kart: Super Circuit, Mario vs. Donkey Kong, Metroid
Fusion, Super Mario Advance 3: Yoshi's Island, The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap, Wario Land
4 and WarioWare, Inc.: Mega Microgames![56]
On April 28, 2012, the Nintendo 3DS launched in South Korea, in Cosmos Black, Misty
Pink and Cobalt Blue color variations.[57] On September 28, 2012, the system launched in two other
regions, Hong Kong and Taiwan, in Cerulean Blue and Shimmer Pink.[58][59]
Larger model

A Nintendo 3DS XL in the open position

Rumors of a larger model of the Nintendo 3DS being in production appeared during June 2012,
when Japanese publication Nikkei wrote an article stating that the system was initially scheduled to
be unveiled at E3 2012. However, Nintendo responded that these rumors were false and that the
article was "entire speculation", but refrained from further commenting on the subject.[60] Finally, on
June 21, 2012, the system was announced during a Nintendo Direct presentation. Featuring 90%
larger screens than the original Nintendo 3DS, the system was set to launch on all major regions
during the middle of the year.[61]
The Nintendo 3DS XL (Nintendo 3DS LL in Japan) was released on July 28, 2012 in Japan, priced
at ¥18,900, and was available in Silver + Black, Red + Black and White color variations.[62] In Europe,
the system launched on the same day but in Silver + Black, Blue + Black and Red + Black color
variations.[62] On August 19, the Nintendo 3DS XL launched in North America, priced at US$199.99,
and available in Red + Black and Blue + Black.[63]On August 23, 2012, Australia and New Zealand
saw the launch of the new handheld, priced at AU$249.95, and available in the same color variations
as in Europe, Silver + Black, Blue + Black and Red + Black.[64] The launch of the Nintendo 3DS XL
coincided with the release of New Super Mario Bros. 2, the first Nintendo 3DS game to be available
in both retail and downloadable versions.
On September 20, 2012, the Nintendo 3DS XL launched in South Korea, in Silver + Black, Red +
Black and White color variations.[65] On September 28, 2012 the system launched in two other
regions, Hong Kong and Taiwan, in Blue + Black and White color variations.[66] In December 2012,
Nintendo Chinese distribution partner, iQue, launched the iQue 3DS XL in three special editions, one
featuring a Mario decal while the other two feature both Mario and Luigi.[67]
Later years
Nintendo officially announced their next home console, the Nintendo Switch, in October 2016 and
with worldwide release in March 2017. The Switch is primarily marketed as a home video game
console, but features a Console unit that can be taken on-the-go and be used similar to a mobile
gaming device or a handheld system. While the Switch has displaced the Wii U as Nintendo's
primary home console in terms of production and distribution,[68] Nintendo executives have affirmed
that the company will continue to support the 3DS through more first-party and third-party titles in the
immediate future. Fils-Aimé assured that the 3DS "has a long life in front of it", and it and the Switch
are meant to co-exist in Nintendo's view,[69] while Kimishima considered the 3DS as an entry-level
product for younger players.[70] In June 2017, Fils-Aimé said they would be supporting Nintendo 3DS
beyond 2018.[71] In June 2018, Nintendo said it would be considering some possibilities for a
successor to the Nintendo 3DS.[72] In June 2019, Nintendo confirmed that first party game
development had ceased but that the system would continue to be supported through the near
future.[73]

Hardware
See also: List of Nintendo 3DS colors and styles
The following explicitly refers to the original Nintendo 3DS model. Some technical details do
not apply to later Nintendo 2DS and New Nintendo 3DS models

Regular Nintendo 3DS button and features layout.

The Nintendo 3DS has custom components codeveloped by the Nintendo Research &
Engineering department and other manufacturers, all combined into a unified system on chip. Its
main central processing unit (CPU) is a dual-core ARM11 MPCore-based processor
manufactured at 45 nm and clocked at 266 MHz.[74] One processor core is dedicated to games
and applications, while the other core is exclusive to the operating system,
enabling multitasking and background tasks. These tasks are handled seamlessly in the
background during gameplay or while the system is in sleep mode. The system also contains a
single-core ARM9-based processor, enabling backward compatibility with both Nintendo
DS and DSi titles. The graphics processor (GPU) is a PICA200 developed by Digital Media
Professionals, running at 133 MHz.[74][75][76] The system contains 128 MB of random-access
memory (RAM) consisting of 128 MB of FCRAM developed by Fujitsu, with a peak bandwidth
of 3.2 GB/s.[77][78]
The console contains two separate screens. The top screen is a 15:9
(5:3) autostereoscopic liquid-crystal display (LCD) with a resolution of 800×240
pixels (effectively 400×240 pixelsper eye, or WQVGA).[79] On the original 3DS, the screen
measures 3.53 in (90 mm), while on the 3DS XL it measures 4.88 in (124 mm). It
is autostereoscopic; it uses a parallax barrierto produce a three-dimensional effect without
requiring special glasses. There is a 3D Depth Slider next to the screen for adjusting the 3D
effect or turning it off altogether. The bottom screen is a 4:3 resistive touchscreen with a display
resolution of 320×240 pixels (QVGA). On the original Nintendo 3DS, the screen measures
77 mm (3.02 in), while on the 3DS XL it measures 106 mm (4.18 in).[80][81]
The system features three camera sensors: two cameras on the outside of the device, capable
of taking 3D photos and capturing 3D video; and one camera facing the user positioned above
the top screen. All camera sensors have a maximum resolution of 640×480 pixels
(0.3 megapixels, VGA) with one-point focus and can only achieve digital zoom. There is also
a microphone in the bottom of the system.[80]
The system includes 2 GB of eMMC flash memory manufactured by
either Toshiba or Samsung.[82] The system's memory can be expanded via an SD memory card
slot, which supports SD and SDHC memory cards. All Nintendo 3DS systems come packaged
with a 2 GB SD card while Nintendo 3DS XL systems include a 4 GB SDHC card.[77] The system
uses 2.4 GHz 802.11 b/g wireless network connectivity with enhanced WPA2 security. There is
also an infrared port on the back of the console, which allows the system to connect with certain
peripherals such as the Circle Pad Pro and the amiibo reader/writer.[83]
The Nintendo 3DS comes with a 3.7 V 1300 mAh 5 Wh lithium ion battery.[77] Its longevity
fluctuates between 3 and 5 hours while playing Nintendo 3DS games and between 5 and 8
hours while playing Nintendo DS games, depending on brightness, volume and wireless
settings. The Nintendo 3DS XL however, comes with a 1750 mAh, 3.7 V lithium-ion
battery capable of lasting between 3.5 and 6.5 hours playing 3DS games and 6 to 10 hours
playing DS games. While the original 3DS weighs approximately 230 grams (8.1 oz), the larger
XL version weighs approximately 336 grams (11.9 oz). When opened, the original 3DS is
134 mm (5.3 in) wide, 74 mm (2.9 in) broad, and 21 mm (0.83 in) thick. The XL version however,
is 156 mm (6.1 in) wide, 93 mm (3.7 in) broad, and 22 mm (0.87 in) thick. The 3DS also come
with a telescoping stylus, extendable to up to 100 mm (3.9 in) long, while the 3DS XL come with
a regular 93 mm (3.7 in) stylus.[80]
All systems in the Nintendo 3DS family use the same AC adapter used with the Nintendo
DSi and Nintendo DSi XL. In order to reduce production costs, certain console bundles, such as
Japanese and European releases of the Nintendo 3DS XL and the New Nintendo 3DS, are not
bundled with an AC adapter, requiring players to either use one from an older system they may
own or purchase one separately. Along with plugging the adapter directly into the system, the
standard Nintendo 3DS comes with a charging cradle, which players place their system into to
charge. Charging cradles for the Nintendo 3DS XL and New Nintendo 3DS systems are sold
separately from their respective systems, and there is no cradle for the Nintendo 2DS.[84]
Input
The Nintendo 3DS input controls include the following: a round nub analog input called the
Circle Pad, a D-pad, four face buttons (A, B, X, Y), bumper buttons (L, R), a Home button, Start
and Select buttons, and a Power button. It also features a dedicated volume slider and a
wireless switch, which turns on or off wireless communications. The touchscreen can be
interacted with either the user's finger or a stylus bundled with the handheld. There is also a six-
axis motion sensor, which includes a 3-axis accelerometer and a 3-axis gyroscope. Through
the Circle Pad Pro accessory the system has access to a second Circle Pad and trigger buttons
(ZL, ZR).[85]
Game card
The Nintendo 3DS Game Card is a media format used to physically distribute video games for
Nintendo 3DS systems. Despite looking near-identical to its predecessor, the Nintendo DS
Game Card, there is a small tab jutting out on the side of the card, preventing 3DS game cards
from being inserted into a Nintendo DS.[86] These game cards can hold up to either 1 GB, 2 GB
or 4 GB of game data depending on the game, which is 2, 4 and 8 times more storage,
respectively, than the biggest Nintendo DS Game Card's capacity (512 MB). Some sources
claim that an 8 GB version could be produced should a game ever require it.[87]
Accessories
Circle Pad Pro

The Circle Pad Pro accessory for the original Nintendo 3DS

The Circle Pad Pro is an accessory/add-on which connects to a Nintendo 3DS system
through infrared adding support for a second Circle Pad, a substitute R button input (as the
original one becomes difficult to reach), and an extra set of trigger buttons (ZL/ZR).[85] The device
was first released in Japan on December 10, 2011, coinciding with the release of Monster
Hunter 3G in the region.[88] It was subsequently released in Europe on January 27, 2012, in
Australia on February 2, 2012, and in North America on February 7, 2012, coinciding with the
release of Resident Evil: Revelations in those regions.[89]
Images of the device first appeared in September 2011 in Famitsu[90][91] The first titles confirmed
to compatible with the add-on were Monster Hunter 3G, Resident Evil: Revelations, Ace Combat
3D Cross Rumble (Japanese version only), Metal Gear Solid: Snake Eater 3D, Kingdom Hearts 3D:
Dream Drop Distance and Shin Sangoku Musou VS.[92]
The Nintendo 3DS XL version of the device, called the Circle Pad Pro XL, was released in
Japan on November 15, 2012, Europe on March 22, 2013, and North America on April 17,
2013.[93][94][95][96]
The C-Stick and ZL/ZR buttons on the New Nintendo 3DS are backward compatible with Circle
Pad Pro-compatible titles.[97][98]

List of Circle Pad Pro compatible software[99]show

Stand
 A Nintendo 3DS stand, originally bundled with Kid Icarus: Uprising

This accessory came bundled exclusively with every retail copy of Kid Icarus: Uprising.[110] The
stand made the game, and other games with similar controls such as Liberation Maiden, easier
to play for various users, as it helped free the tension of suspending the console with one hand
since the other hand would be using the stylus on the touch screen for longer periods than
usual.
NFC Reader/Writer
See also: Amiibo

A Nintendo 3DS NFC Reader/Writer, which enabled Amiibo for the 3DS, 3DS XL and 2DS

A near-field communication (NFC) reader and writer was released on September 25, 2015 in
North America at US$19.99 and on October 2 in Europe, alongside Animal Crossing: Happy
Home Designer. This peripheral enables Amiibo support for the Nintendo 3DS, 3DS XL, and
2DS, a feature already built-in to New Nintendo 3DS systems. The accessory is powered by
two AA batteries.[111]
Other models
The Nintendo 3DS family currently has six models available. Apart from the regular-sized
Nintendo 3DS, the Nintendo 3DS XL is a larger model of the console which was released on
July 28, 2012, and features 90% larger screens than the original Nintendo 3DS.[16] The Nintendo
2DS is a complete redesign of the handheld which was released on October 12, 2013, and is
described as an "entry level" version of the 3DS. This console, while still capable of playing
Nintendo DS and 3DS games, removes the 3D functionality and changes the form factor to a
fixed, "slate" design.[17] The New Nintendo 3DS, which also has an XL variant, adds additional
controls and improved functionality, and is able to play certain games not compatible with
previous models.
Nintendo 2DS
Main article: Nintendo 2DS

A Black + Blue Nintendo 2DS

The Nintendo 2DS (abbreviated to 2DS) was announced on August 28, 2013, as a new entry-
level model of the Nintendo 3DS family. While its hardware and software are relatively similar to
the Nintendo 3DS (and still offers compatibility with Nintendo DS and 3DS games), it lacks the
3DS's signature 3D screen, does not have internal stereo speakers (only using
a mono speaker), and uses a slate-like form factor as opposed to the clamshell designused by
its Nintendo DS and 3DS predecessors. The Nintendo 2DS was released in North America and
Europe on October 12, 2013, coinciding with the launch of Pokémon X & Y and is being sold
alongside the Nintendo 3DS and 3DS XL at a relatively lower price point.[112]
As a cheaper model of the Nintendo 3DS family that still plays Nintendo DS and 3DS games, the
Nintendo 2DS is seen as a market strategy to broaden the overall Nintendo handheld gaming
market. As such, the 2DS is a handheld console targeted at a different audience than that of the
regular Nintendo 3DS models, particularly younger users. Despite concerns from critics who felt
that the company was trying to de-emphasize the 3D functionality by releasing the 2DS,
Nintendo maintains that 3D is still part of their future plans.[113]
New Nintendo 3DS
Main article: New Nintendo 3DS

A Metallic Black Nintendo 3DS XL

The New Nintendo 3DS and New Nintendo 3DS XL (known as New Nintendo 3DS LL in
Japan) are updated revisions of the 3DS and 3DS XL that were first unveiled during the
Japanese Nintendo Direct presentation on August 29, 2014. The new models feature a more
powerful processor, face tracking for improved 3D viewing angles, additional ZL/ZR shoulder
buttons and a new "C-Stick" pointing stick that are comparable to and backward compatible with
games that support the Circle Pad Pro, colored face buttons inspired by those of Super NES
controllers, automatic brightness adjustment, microSD storage, larger batteries, and
integrated near-field communications support for use with Amiibo products. The regular-sized
New Nintendo 3DS also has slightly larger screens than the prior model, and a suite of
interchangeable faceplates.[114][115]
As with its predecessors, the New Nintendo 3DS is compatible with existing DS and 3DS titles.
Some software titles, such as Xenoblade Chronicles 3D and Super Nintendo Entertainment
System games released for Virtual Console, are specifically optimized for the device and its
upgraded processor and are incompatible with earlier 3DS and 2DS models.[116][117][118]
The systems were released in Japan on October 11, 2014, in Australia and New Zealand on
November 21, 2014,[119][120] and at retail in Europe and North America on February 13, 2015. Only
the XL version was made available in North America at launch,[116][117] though the smaller model
was later released in a series of limited edition bundles.[121]
New Nintendo 2DS XL
Main article: New Nintendo 2DS XL

A Black x Turquoise New Nintendo 2DS XL

On April 27, 2017, Nintendo unveiled the New Nintendo 2DS XL (known as New Nintendo 2DS
LL in Japan), which was released in North America and Europe on July 28, 2017[122] and Japan
on July 29, 2017.[123] The system is a variation of the New Nintendo 3DS line, featuring the
additional hardware features and software compatibility of the New Nintendo 3DS, albeit without
the stereoscopic 3D functionality, and a newly designed foldable screen.[124] No announcements
have been made on a non-XL variant of the system.
Timeline of availability
Software
See also: Nintendo 3DS system software
Operating system
Main article: Nintendo 3DS system software

The Nintendo 3DS Home Menu as of system version 9.3.0-21. The upper screen displays a 3D
animated logo for each individual app, while the bottom screen displays application icons.

The Home Menu is a graphical user interface similar to the Nintendo DSi Menu and Wii U
Menu for Nintendo 3DS systems. It is used to launch software stored on Nintendo
DS and Nintendo 3DS Game Cards, applications installed on a SD card and DSiWare titles
installed in the system's internal memory. Application icons are set in a customizable grid
navigable on the lower screen. On the upper screen, a special 3D animated logo is displayed for
each individual app, as well as system information such as wireless signal strength, date and
time, and battery life.[125] Using the Home button, users can suspend the current software that is
running and bring up the Home Menu, allowing the user to launch certain multitasking
applications, such as the Internet Browser and Miiverse.
Similarly to the Nintendo DSi, the menu has updateable firmware. On April 25, 2012, a system
update brought the introduction of a folder system, which allows users to put applications inside
folders.[126] On June 20, 2013, a system update brought the introduction of the Save Data
Backup feature, which allows the user to back up save data from downloadable Nintendo 3DS
software and most Virtual Console games.[127] An update was released on October 30, 2014 to
enable players to download custom themes for the Home Menu, based on various Nintendo
titles.[128]
Multitasking
The Nintendo 3DS is capable of suspending an application and run one of six multitasking
applications. Once a game or application is running, the user can press the Home button to
suspend it and temporarily open the Home Menu. It is then possible to open another specially
designed multitasking application built into the system without closing the currently suspended
software. Attempting to open a game or application while another is already running will result in
a warning prompt.[125] These multitasking applications include:
 Game Notes, which allows users to write and save notes, with screenshots from both
screens of the current suspended software present to aid the user.
 Friend List, a list of registered friends, with information such as their current status as well
as current/favorite application; up to 100 friends can be registered by exchanging friend
codes or using the Local option.
 Notifications, whilst receiving notifications the top LED light will flash either blue or green,
depending if it is a SpotPass or StreetPass notification, respectively.
 Internet Browser
 Miiverse, a social networking service dedicated to games and other applications; comments
and software screenshots can be posted on dedicated software communities.
 Camera, a lightweight version of Nintendo 3DS Camera with most features omitted,
accessed by holding the L and R buttons; QR codes can be read by the camera.
Camera
Nintendo 3DS Camera is a built-in photo and video recorder with an integrated media gallery
and photo editing functionality. The app uses the system's two front-facing cameras to take 3D
photos, and the user-facing camera to take regular 2D photos. All photographs are taken at a
resolution of 640 x 480 px (VGA), or 0.3 megapixels. There are various options and filters
available when taking photos or recording video. There is also a Low-Light option, which is
useful when taking photos and recording video in low lighting conditions.[129]
On December 7, 2011, a system update added the ability to record 3D video along special
recording options, such as the ability to make stop motion animations.[130] All recording modes
only allow a single video to be up to 10 minutes long.[131]
Sound
Nintendo 3DS Sound is a built-in music player and sound recorder. Supported filename
extensions include MP3 audio with .mp3 and AAC audio with .mp4, .m4a, or .3GP. Audio files
can be played from an SD card, with visualizations displayed on the upper screen. Music can be
played while the console is closed, using the system's headphone jack. A set of sound
manipulation options are available, as well as several audio filters. Ten-second voice recordings
can also be recorded and edited.[132] These can then be shared throughout other applications
such as Swapnote.[citation needed] There is also a StreetPass function built-into the app, where users
exchange song data to make a compatibility chart between them.[132]
Nintendo eShop
Main article: Nintendo eShop
Nintendo eShop is the Nintendo 3DS's online software distribution service. The eShop provides
downloadable retail and download-only Nintendo 3DS titles, Virtual Console titles, and various
applications and videos. It also allows users to purchase downloadable content (DLC) and
automatically download patches for both physical and downloadable games. All content
obtained from Nintendo eShop is attached to a Nintendo Network ID but can only be used in one
system. Background downloading is possible via SpotPass, while playing games or in sleep
mode. Up to ten downloads can be queued at a time and their status can be checked on the
Home Menu.[133] The Nintendo eShop supports simple user software reviews. Users can submit a
review with "stars" ranging from one to five, representing its quality in a crescent order, and
categorize software by whether it is suitable for hardcore or more casual players. User reviews
can only be submitted after using the software for at least one hour.[citation needed]
Miiverse
Main article: Miiverse
Miiverse was an integrated social networking service, which allowed players to interact and
share their gaming experiences through their personal Mii characters. It was originally launched
on Wii U and was launched on the Nintendo 3DS on December 11, 2013 via a firmware
update.[134] Its functionality was similar to the Wii U version albeit without the private messaging
feature, and requires a Nintendo Network ID.
Miiverse allows users to seamlessly share accomplishments, comments, hand written notes, and
game screenshots with other players on various communities specific to their games and
applications. It is possible to access Wii U communities on the Nintendo 3DS and vice versa. It
is also possible to access Miiverse on every internet enabled smartphone, tablet and PC.[135] The
service is moderated through software filtering as well as a human resource team in order to
ensure that the content shared by users is appropriate and that no spoilers are shared.[136] It is
also possible to post screenshots from certain games to social networking websites such
as Twitter, Tumblr and/or Facebook via the Nintendo 3DS Image Share service.[137]
On November 7, 2017, the Miiverse servers closed down for the 3DS and the Wii U.
Internet browser
Main article: Internet Browser (Nintendo 3DS)
The Nintendo 3DS's internet browser was released via a firmware update on June 6, 2011 in
North America and June 7, 2011 in Europe and Japan.[138] It functions as a multitasking system
application and can be used while another application is suspended in the background. The
browser contains a text wrap option to automatically wrap text to the width of the screen at
different zoom levels, and is mainly controlled with the stylus or the Circle Pad and the D-pad to
cycle through links on the page. The browser supports HTML, CSS, JavaScript and
some HTML5 elements but does not support Flash, video or music.[139] It can also download and
show 3D images with the .mpo file extension and allows users to save images on an SD card.
Additionally the browser supports JPEG and MPO image uploads from the system's photo
gallery. The user can also choose between the Google and the Yahoo! search engines, and can
also create bookmarks. The 3DS also shipped with the Nintendo Zone Viewer. The Nintendo
Zone Viewer was a 3D enabled browser that was developed by Nintendo to support location-
based Nintendo Zone interaction .[140]
Video services
Nintendo Video launched in Australia, Europe, and Japan on July 13, 2011, and in North
America on July 21, 2011, along with a tutorial video.[141][142][143] The service periodically updates its
video content availability through SpotPass, automatically adding and deleting content from the
console. Up to four videos can be available through the app at the same time. Nintendo Video
content include: established series such as Oscar's Oasis and Shaun the Sheep (with fifteen
exclusive episodes);[144] original series such as Dinosaur Office and BearShark by CollegeHumor;
short films; movie trailers; and sports videos by Redbull and BSkyB. The Nintendo Video app
had since gone defunct in the Japanese, European and Oceania regions by April 2014, and in
North America by July 2015. In North America at least, the "Nintendo Video" name continues to
exist a permanent Nintendo eShop category for all hosted videos that previously featured on the
former app, as well as potential new content. The permanently hosted online "Nintendo Video"
eShop videos can be viewed on-demand at any time without additional costs.
The Netflix streaming video service was released in North America on July 14, 2011.[145] Netflix
users are able to pause streaming video on the Nintendo 3DS and resume it on other Netflix-
enabled devices. Only 2D content is available through the service.[146] Nintendo announced on
October 21, 2011, that Hulu Plus would be released on the Nintendo 3DS by the end of the
year.[147] On February 16, 2012, following the debut of Hulu on the Wii, Nintendo reiterated the
announcement this time claiming it would be available on the 3DS sometime in 2012.[148] Finally,
on August 6, 2013, the Hulu application became available in Japan and on October 17, 2013,
the Hulu Plus application was launched in North America, along with a one-week free
trial.[149][150] On November 29, 2013, the YouTubeapplication was released for the Nintendo 3DS
in Europe and North America.[151]
Discontinued video services
The SpotPass TV service launched in Japan on June 19, 2011. The service was a joint service
between Nihon TV and Fuji TV that brought free 3D video content to Nintendo 3DS users in
Japan. Types of content included programming teaching the user how to do magic tricks,
Japanese idol sumo wrestling, sports, and 3D dating, among others. The service was terminated
on June 20, 2012, a year after its inception.[152] A Eurosport app launched in Europe and
Australia on December 15, 2011, and worked similarly to the Nintendo Video app. It featured
weekly episodes of Watts Zap and other compilation videos containing Eurosport
content.[153] The service was terminated on December 31, 2012, a year after its inception.[154]
Swapnote
Main article: Swapnote
Swapnote (known as Nintendo Letter Box in Europe and Australia) is a messaging application
for the Nintendo 3DS. Swapnote was released on December 21, 2011 in Japan and on
December 22 in Europe, Australia and North America, via the Nintendo eShop. The application
is free and is pre-installed on newer systems. It allows users to send hand-written/drawn
messages to registered friends via SpotPass either or other users via StreetPass.[155] The app
also allows users to freely embed pictures and sounds into their messages.
On October 31, 2013, Nintendo abruptly suspended the Swapnote/Nintendo Letter Box
SpotPass functionality after discovering minors were sharing Friend Codes with strangers who
had exploited the messaging service to allegedly exchange pornographic imagery.[156][157]
Mii Maker
Mii Maker is a system application that allows users to create Mii characters through either a
selection of facial and body features, such as the nose, mouth, eyes, hair, among other, or by
taking a photo using the system's cameras and auto-generate a personal Mii. Mii characters can
also be added and shared by reading special QR codes with one of the cameras.[158] It is also
possible to import Mii characters from a Wii or a Wii U system. However, Mii created on
Nintendo 3DS systems cannot be exported back to a Wii due to the addition of character parts in
Mii Maker not present on the Wii's Mii Channel.[159] This restriction, however, is not applied when
exporting a Mii from a Nintendo 3DS to a Wii U system.
Activity Log
Activity Log is a system application that tracks game-play and keeps a record of which games
have been played and for how long, as well as physical activity, such as counting every step
taken while carrying a Nintendo 3DS using its built in pedometer. The feature encourages
walking every day with the system in order to earn Play Coins, at a maximum of 10 each day at
a rate of one per 100 steps, to a total of 300 coins. Play Coins can then be used with compatible
games and applications to acquire special content and a variety of other benefits.[160]
Other network features
Other network features of the Nintendo 3DS include the Nintendo Network, SpotPass and
StreetPass, and StreetPass Mii Plaza is a StreetPass application which comes pre-installed on
every Nintendo 3DS system, while Nintendo Zone Viewer is a built-in application that detects
and makes use of certified SpotPass hotspots (discontinued service).

Games
Further information: List of Nintendo 3DS games and List of best-selling Nintendo 3DS games
Retail copies of games are supplied on proprietary cartridges called Nintendo 3DS Game Cards,
which are packaged in keep cases with simple instructions. In Europe, the boxes have a triangle
at the bottom corner of the paper sleeve-insert side. The triangle is color-coded to identify the
region for which the title is intended and which manual languages are included. Unlike with
previous Nintendo consoles, the complete software manual is only available digitally via the
system's Home Menu. Software published by Nintendo and by some third parties come
packaged with Club Nintendo points, which can be redeemed for special rewards.[161] Retail and
download-only games are also available for download in the Nintendo eShop. All Nintendo 3DS
consoles are region locked (software purchased in a region can be only played on that region's
hardware).[162]
A total of 335 million Nintendo 3DS games have been sold worldwide as of June 30,
2017,[163] with 34 titles surpassing the million-unit mark. The most successful game, Pokémon
X and Y, has sold approximately 16 million units worldwide.[6]
Launch titles
The Nintendo 3DS launched in Japan with 8 games,[164] in North America with 15 games[165] and
in Europe with 14 games.[166] An additional thirty games were announced for release during the
system's "launch window", which includes the three months after the system's launch date.

List of Nintendo 3DS launch titles by region releasedshow

Augmented reality

An augmented reality tech demo called Target Shooting, as seen at E3 2010.

AR Games is a compilation of several augmented reality mini-games and simple tools, which is
pre-installed on every Nintendo 3DS, along with 6 paper cards that interact with certain games.
Five of the six cards have a picture of a character on them, consisting
of Mario, Link, Kirby, Pikmin, and Samus. The sixth one is a question mark box from the Super
Mario Bros. series. Nintendo has also published downloadable versions of this card in larger
sizes.[167] By scanning the cards, real time graphics are augmented onto live footage. It is also
possible to take 3D photos of Nintendo characters, using any to all 6 AR Cards, as well as
their Miis.
Some AR cards are also compatible with other Nintendo 3DS games including Nintendogs +
Cats, Kid Icarus: Uprising, Pokédex 3D Pro, Freakyforms: Your Creations, Alive! and Tetris:
Axis.[168][169]
Face Raiders is another augmented reality application pre-installed on every Nintendo 3DS
system. In order to start playing, the user must take pictures of peoples' faces. These faces then
turn into enemies and attack the player, who must shoot them using the system's gyroscope.
The background of the game is the rear camera's viewpoint.[170] As people walk by in the
background, the game takes their pictures from their faces, also adding them as enemies. It is
also possible to collect faces from the system's image gallery, which is searched automatically
for faces.[171]
There are other Nintendo 3DS applications that similarly use the system's AR capabilities, such
as Photos with Mario, Photos with Animal Crossing, Pokémon Dream Radar and Spirit Camera:
The Cursed Memoir.[172][173]
Download Play
Download Play allows users to play local multiplayer games with other Nintendo 3DS systems
using only one Game Card. Players must have their systems within wireless range (up to
approximately 65 feet) of each other for the guest system to download the necessary data from
the host system. Download Play on Nintendo 3DS systems is also backward compatible,
meaning that it is also available for Nintendo DS games. Unlike Download Play on Nintendo DS,
game data, once downloaded to the guest system, is stored on the system's SD card, no longer
requiring a re-download for a future game session.[174] Nintendo 3DS games can only transfer a
maximum of 32 MB of data to other systems while in download play.[175] Other forms of local
multiplayer modes require each player to own the software that is currently being used.
Backward compatibility
See also: List of Nintendo DS games and List of DSiWare games and applications
In addition to its own software, the Nintendo 3DS is backward compatible with most Nintendo
DS and Nintendo DSi software. Like the DSi, the Nintendo 3DS is incompatible with DS software
that requires the use of the Game Boy Advance port. Nintendo DS and DSi software cannot be
played with 3D visuals on the 3DS. The original DS display resolutions are displayed in a scaled
and stretched fashion due to the increased resolution of the 3DS's screens. If the user holds
down the START or SELECT buttons upon launching Nintendo DS software, the emulated
screens will be displayed in Nintendo DS's native resolution, albeit smaller with black borders.
On the Nintendo 3DS XL, this method yields a viewing size for DS games similar to their native
sizes (due to the larger screen size of the XL), unlike on the original 3DS models, where the
games appear to be shrunk.[176][177]
Virtual Console
Main article: Virtual Console
The Virtual Console service allows Nintendo 3DS owners to download and play games
originally released for the Game Boy, Game Boy Color, Sega Game Gear, Nintendo
Entertainment System, and exclusively for New Nintendo 3DS models, Super Nintendo
Entertainment System. Virtual Console games are distributed over broadband Internet via
the Nintendo eShop, and are saved to a removable SD card. Once downloaded, Virtual Console
games can be accessed from the Home Menu as individual apps. The service was launched on
June 6 in North America and June 7, 2011 in Japan and Europe[citation needed] as part of a system
update.[178]
Nintendo and Sega also launched the 3D Classics series, a selection of enhanced retro
games for the Nintendo 3DS featuring updated stereoscopic graphics.[179][180]
Non-gaming uses
The Louvre Museum in Paris contracted Nintendo to create a 3DS-based audiovisual visitor
guide.[181] The guide contains over 30 hours of audio and over 1,000 photographs of artwork and
the museum itself, including 3D views,[182] and also provides navigation thanks to differential
GPS transmitters installed within the museum.[183] 3DS XLs pre-loaded with the guide are
available for hire at the museum, and the software can also be purchased from the Nintendo
eShop. Unlike most 3DS titles, the guide is not region locked.[184]

Comparison
Comparison of Nin

Name New Nintendo 2DS XL New Nintendo 3DS XL New Nintendo 3D

Logo

Console

In production Current Discontinued Discontinued[185]

Generation

 AU: June 15, 2017[188]  JP: October 11, 2014  JP: October 25, 2014
 JP: July 13, 2017  AU: November 21, 2014  AU: November 21, 2014
Release date
 NA: July 28, 2017  EU: February 13, 2015  EU: February 13, 2015
 EU: July 28, 2017  NA: February 13, 2015  NA: September 25, 2015
 JP¥18,900
 JP¥16,000
 US$149.99  US$199.99
 US$219.99
 A$199.99  A$249.99
Launch price  A$219.95
 C$199.99  C$239.99
 €169.99
 £129.99  €199.99
 £149.99
 £179.99

Current price Same as the launch price. Discontinued Discontinued

Worldwid
Units shipped
includes 60.41 million
 Best-selling
software title
3D enabled No Yes (adjustable depth with Super Stable 3D)
Autostereoscopic (3D) 4.88 in Autostereoscopic (3D) 3.88
4.88 in 800 × 240
(124 mm)[191] (99 mm)[191]
Upper: px WQVGA Upper: 800 × 240 px (400 × 240 WQVGA per eye)
Display

appro
5 brightness levels [citation needed]
5 brightness levels & automatic brightness adjustment [citation ne

Processor 804 MHz quad-core ARM11 & 134 MHz single-core ARM9[192]
Graphics 268 MHz Dig
Memory 256 MB FCRAM @ 6.4GB/s (64 MB Reserved for OS)
One front-facing and two outward-facing 0.3 MP (VGA) sensors
Camera
Infrared LED light facing the user
Storage 4 GB Micro SD Card included
Nin
Physical media
Nint

 D-pad
 Circle Pad
 Analog nub (C-stick)
 A/B/X/Y, L/R, ZL/ZR, and START/SELECT buttons
 Home button
Input controls
 Touchscreen
 Microphone
 Camera
 Motion sensor
 Gyro sensor
1400 mAh lithium-ion battery 1750 mAh lithium-ion battery 1400 mAh lithium-ion batte

 3.5–7 hours (determined by  3.5–7 hours (determined by screen  3.5–6 hours (determined
Battery screen brightness, Wi-Fi, and brightness, Wi-Fi, sound volume, and brightness, Wi-Fi, sound v
sound volume)[197] 3D effect)[198] 3D effect)

5–9 hours for DS compatibility 7–12 hours for DS compatibility 6.5–10.5 hours for DS com
mode mode mode
 Integrated 802.11b/g
Connectivity  IR transceiver
 NFC reader for Amiibo

Stylus 69 mm (2.7 in) long 86 mm (3.4 in) long 76.5 mm (3.01 in) long

Weight 260 grams (9.2 oz) 329 grams (11.6 oz) 253 grams (8.9 oz)
 159.36 mm (6.27 in) W
160 mm (6.3 in) W 142 mm (5.6 in) W
Dimensions 86.36 mm (3.4 in) D 93.5 mm (3.68 in) D 80.6 mm (3.17 in) D
20.8 mm (0.81 in) H 21.5 mm (0.85 in) H 21.6 mm (0.85 in) H

Nintendo Network

 Nintendo eShop
 Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection (Discontinued for original DS games only)
 Miiverse (Discontinued)
Online services  Nintendo Video (Discontinued)
 Swapnote (Nintendo Letter Box in PAL region) (Discontinued)
o StreetPass Mii Plaza (local & online players met)
 SpotPass and StreetPass
 Internet Browser
 Nintendo Network ID
 Health & Safety Information
 Nintendo 3DS / DS Game Card launcher
 Nintendo 3DS Camera (photo and video recording and editing)
 Nintendo 3DS Sound
 Nintendo eShop
 Mii Maker
 StreetPass Mii Plaza
 AR Games
 Face Raiders
 Activity Log
 Nintendo Zone (select regions only)
Preloaded
 Nintendo Video
applications
 Swapnote (Nintendo Letter Box in PAL region)
 Eurosport (select regions only)
 Netflix (select regions only, with paid subscription)
 YouTube
 Hulu Plus (select regions only, with paid subscription)
 3DS/DS Download Play
 System Settings
 Game Notes
 Friend List
 Notifications
 Internet Browser
Regional
lockout

Physical Only Nintendo Game Cards

Backward Nintendo DS/DSi Game Card

compatibility Downloadable only

 DSiWare
  Virtual Console
o Game Boy
o Game Boy Color
o SNES
o Game Boy Advance (Available through the Nintendo 3DS Ambassador Program only)
o Sega Game Gear
o Turbografx16 (Available in Japan only)
o Nintendo Entertainment System

Reception
The Nintendo 3DS hardware has received very positive reviews. IGN called its hardware design
a "natural evolution of the Nintendo DSi system."[40] CNET praised the device's 3D effect, while
IGN called it "impressively sharp and clean", and impressively superior to its
predecessors,[205][206] although it was noted that the 3D effect only worked if the system was held
at the right distance and angle.[206][207] A common complaint was the 3DS's battery life; Engadget
reported to get 3 hours of battery life from the system,[207] while IGN reported 2 to 4.5 hours of
play.
The Nintendo 3DS XL was very well received at launch. Reviewers generally recommended the
console to new buyers of the Nintendo 3DS family, although not so much to current owners of a
Nintendo 3DS. Kotaku mentioned it as "possibly the best portable gaming device ever...[and] a
well-designed machine..." and that "it plays great games"[208] while The Verge called it "the best
portable gaming buy around right now."[209] The Nintendo 3DS XL improves upon the battery life
of the original 3DS. Kotaku claimed that the Nintendo 3DS XL's battery "lasts a cross-country
flight.".[210] Sam Byford of The Verge noted that the larger top screen makes more obvious
problems with aliasing and low-resolution textures. He did, however, say that the 3D felt more
immersive: "Where the 3DS felt like peering through a peephole into another world, the XL is
almost like stepping through a door."[211] On the other hand, Destructoid said the 3D effect on the
XL was more subtle than on its predecessor.[212] The Verge spoke positively of the build quality
and design choices, saying the console improved on the original.[211] A Destructoid reviewer said
the 3DS XL was easier to use than the regular Nintendo 3DS, mainly due to his large
hands.[212] The Verge noted lowered sound quality from the original, the result of smaller
speakers.[211] Both The Verge and Gizmodo complained of low-quality cameras.[211]
Sales
Life-to-date number of units shipped, in millions
(all models combined)

Date Japan America Other Total Increase

2011-03-31[213] 1.06 1.32 1.23 3.61 N/A

2011-06-30[214] 1.27 1.43 1.63 4.32 19.7%

2011-09-30[215] 2.13 2.13 2.42 6.68 54.6%

2011-12-31[216] 4.66 5.47 4.91 15.03 125%

2012-03-31[217] 5.85 5.99 5.30 17.13 14%

2012-06-30[218] 6.76 6.41 5.82 19.00 10.9%

2012-09-30[219] 7.94 7.38 6.88 22.19 16.8%

2012-12-31[220] 10.88 9.97 8.99 29.84 34.5%

2013-03-31[221] 11.54 10.26 9.29 31.09 4.2%

2013-06-30[222] 12.18 10.62 9.69 32.48 4.5%

2013-09-30[223] 13.33 11.43 10.22 34.98 7.7%

2013-12-31[224] 15.76 14.36 12.62 42.74 22.18%

2014-03-31[225] 15.89 14.59 12.85 43.33 1.4%

2014-06-30[226] 16.15 14.83 13.16 44.14 1.84%

2014-09-30[227] 16.61 15.27 13.54 45.42 2.9%

2014-12-31[228] 18.70 16.77 14.93 50.41 10.99%

2015-03-31[229] 18.96 17.51 15.58 52.06 1.4%

2015-06-30[230] 19.25 17.91 15.90 53.07 1.4%

2015-09-30[231] 19.79 18.27 16.29 54.34 2.4%

2015-12-31[232] 20.97 19.50 17.47 57.94 2.4%

2016-03-31[233] 21.32 19.76 17.77 58.85 1.4%

2016-06-30[234] 21.63 20.11 18.05 59.79 1.6%

 2016-09-30[235] 22.14 20.73 18.69 61.57 2.98%

2016-12-31[236] 23.13 21.96 20.21 65.30 5.7%

2017-03-31[237] 23.31 22.32 20.50 66.12 1.26%

2017-06-30[238] 23.54 22.73 20.80 67.08 1.45%

2017-09-30[239] 24.07 23.49 21.42 68.98 2.83%

2017-12-31[240] 24.63 24.88 22.48 71.99 4.36%

2018-03-31[241] 24.70 25.17 22.66 72.53 0.75%

2018-06-30[242] 24.76 25.37 22.76 72.89 0.5%

2018-09-30[243] 24.93 25.67 22.92 73.53 0.88%

2018-12-31[244] 25.15 26.35 23.34 74.84 1.78%

2019-03-31[245] 25.18 26.45 23.46 75.08 0.32%

2019-06-30[246] 25.21 26.54 23.54 75.28 0.27%

Pre-launch
Prior to its launch, Amazon UK announced that the Nintendo 3DS was their most pre-ordered
video game system ever.[247] Nintendo of America announced that the number of pre-orders were
double the number of pre-orders for the Wii.[248]
Launch
The system launched in Japan on February 26, 2011, and sold its entire allotment of 400,000
Nintendo 3DS units during its release in amid reports of major queues outside retailers and pre-
order sellouts.[249] On March 25, 2011, the system launched in Europe, selling 303,000 units
during its first two days of its release. In the UK 113,000 3DS units were sold during its opening
weekend, making it Nintendo's most successful hardware launch in the country to this
day.[250] According to the NPD Group, Nintendo sold just under 500,000 Nintendo 3DS units
during the month of March 2011 in the US, with 440,000 Nintendo 3DS units sold in its first week
of release.[251][252] As of March 31, 2011 the 3DS had sold 3.61 million units, short of the 4 million
Nintendo projected.[253] The Nintendo 3DS is also the fastest selling console in Australia, with
200,000 units sold through 37 weeks of availability.[254]
Price cut
Following the system's price cut of almost one third of its original price by the second quarter of
2011, sales saw an increase of more than 260 percent during the comparable 19-day time
period in July. About 185,000 units were sold following a price cut on August 12. Nintendo sold
more than 235,000 Nintendo 3DS systems in the United States in August, being the second
best-selling dedicated game system for the month.[255]
After approximately 8 months after its release, Nintendo of America announced that sales of the
Nintendo 3DS had surpassed the original Nintendo DS in its first year, which was approximately
2.37 million units sold.[256] During the 2011 holiday season, the Nintendo 3DS sold approximately
1.6 million units in Japan.[257] By the end of 2011, Nintendo 3DS sales reached 4 million units
sold in the United States.[258] Overall, Nintendo sold 11.4 million Nintendo 3DS units worldwide, in
2011.[259]
Subsequent sales
On September 30, 2013, Nintendo president Satoru Iwata announced that the Nintendo 3DS
had sold more than 5 million units in Japan during the year of 2013. This mark was only
surpassed by its predecessor, the Nintendo DS.[260]
Following the launch of the Nintendo 2DS, Nintendo sold 452,000 units of the Nintendo 3DS
family in the United States, during the month of October, double the previous month's sales. As
such, it achieved its sixth consecutive month as the best-selling video game console in the US.
Total Nintendo 3DS first-party software sales for the month hit more than 2 million units, the
highest since December 2011.[261] North American retailer Target reported that the Nintendo 3DS
XL was among its top-sellers during the Black Friday.[262] On November 29, 2013, Nintendo of
France deputy general manager Philippe Lavoué announced that Nintendo 3DS life-to-date
hardware sales stand at 2.15 million units in France, in which 30 percent account for Nintendo
2DS sales. It was also announced that the 3DS possesses a market share of 50 percent of all
video game systems sold, and that Nintendo 3DS software sales rose from 850,000 to
1,700,000 year-over-year in the region.[263] According to the NPD Group, Nintendo sold around
770,000 units of the Nintendo 3DS family in November in North America, pushing the lifetime to
nearly 10.5 million units in the region.[264] On December 19, 2013, MCV reported that lifetime
Nintendo 3DS family sales in the United Kingdom had hit 2 million units, making it the best-
selling console of the year in the region.[265][266]
By January 2014, Nintendo had sold 900,000 units in Spain.[267] The fourth quarter of 2014 saw
the release of the New Nintendo 3DS in Japan and Australia. Although having upgraded
hardware, a few exclusive titles, and being capable of running SNES Virtual Console games, it is
not treated as a new generation of console. It is considered to be part of the 3DS family, and is
therefore included in these sales figures.
The first quarter of 2015 saw the release of the New Nintendo 3DS, part of the 3DS family and
thus counted among these sales figures, in Europe and North America.
As of September 30, 2018, Nintendo reports 73.53 million units have been shipped worldwide, of
which 24.93 million were shipped to Japan, 25.67 million were shipped to the Americas, and
22.92 million were shipped to other territories including Europe.[15]
As of September 30, 2019, total sales reached 75.45 million.[268]
Health concerns
Nintendo has publicly stated that the 3D mode of the Nintendo 3DS is not intended for use by
children ages six and younger, citing possible harm to their vision. Nintendo suggests that
younger players use the device's 2D mode instead,[269] although the American Optometric
Association has assured parents that 3D gaming in moderation would not be harmful for
children.[270] Additionally, the 3DS may help in screening children before the age of 6 who have
depth related vision problems according to Dr. Michael Duenas, associate director for health
sciences and policy for the American Optometric Association, and Dr. Joe Ellis, the president of
the optometrists' association.[271] However, Dr. David Hunter, a pediatric ophthalmologist affiliated
with the American Academy of Ophthalmology believes that it is largely speculative whether a
child who has problems perceiving depth in real life would react to a 3DS in any way that
parents would recognize as indicating any problems with depth perception.[271] Nintendo's vague
warning, that, "there is a possibility that 3-D images which send different images to the left and
right eye could affect the development of vision in small children," was not specifically backed up
by any scientific evidence, leading Duenas to believe it is motivated by preventing possible
liability rather than safeguarding against realistic harm.[271]
Nintendo has stated that a parental control involving a PIN would allow parents to disable
autostereoscopic effects.[272] Playing games in 3D has been suspected of causing headaches
among some gamers.[273] The dizziness experienced by some users may be explained similarly
to the headaches that watchers of 3D movies have similarly experienced, which is believed to be
due to confusion caused by a lack of visual cues that humans use to perceive depth in their
everyday environment.[271]
Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aimé partially cited these concerns as one of the
influences of the Nintendo 2DS, an entry-level version of the Nintendo 3DS systems lacking 3D
functionality.[112]

Legal issues
In 2011, 58-year-old former Sony employee Seijiro Tomita sued Nintendo for infringing a patent
on the 3D screen that obviates the need for 3D glasses. On March 13, 2013, a United States
federal jury ordered Nintendo to pay him US$30.2 million in damages.[274]However, on August 7,
2013, that amount was reduced by 50% to US$15.1 million because the initial figure was,
according to Judge Jed Rakoff, a federal judge, "intrinsically excessive" and "unsupported by the
evidence presented at trial." He added that when the suit was originally filed in 2011 the 3DS
was not profitable. Nintendo appealed unsuccessfully.[275] On December 11, 2013, it was decided
by Judge Rakoff that Nintendo pay 1.82% of the wholesale price of each unit sold to Tomita.[276]
On July 17, 2015, Nintendo won a patent suit filed against eight of its handheld consoles,
including the 3DS.[277] The suit was originally filed by the Quintal Research Group after it secured
a patent for a "computerized information retrieval system" in 2008.[278] On March 17, 2018,
the United States Appeals Court determined Nintendo had not violated Tomita's patent.[279]