Japanese gaming giant Nintendo is reportedly working to deliver a “full-blown” app store for the Wii U, its new next-generation console launching in the second-quarter of 2012, The Daily reports.
Whilst Nintendo already runs smaller app stores on its handheld devices and existing Wii console, the company is set to deliver a new experience on the Wii U, utilising the iPad-like tablet controller to deliver a more integrated app experience for gamers.
The Daily’s Matt Hickey writes:
Wii U owners will be able to use apps that operate on the Wii U itself, such as MLB.TV, and others that run independently on the Wii U’s controller. Given its tablet-like design and 6.2-inch screen, it’s not hard to imagine being able to check email, browse the Web, post to social networks and even get some gaming in.
Nintendo’s offering is set to differ from existing gaming consoles in the respect that its tablet-like controller will be able to operate separately from the console itself, providing game developers with the option to deliver different apps and control options for gamers.
In July, Nintendo America president Reggie Fils-Aime said that the Wii U would launch after April 1, suggesting a mid-2012 launch for the device that was first unveiled at E3 2011.
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