Opera
sent out a press release confirming that their browser will come as an
optional feature with Nintendo's new console Wii.
The Wii console
will feature a PowerPC CPU code-named Broadway, which is "jointly developed with
and manufactured by IBM" using 90 nm silicon-on-insulator process technology.
The console will also feature an unnamed ATI graphics processor, as well as 512
MB of internal Flash memory, 802.11b/g Wi-Fi, two USB 2.0 ports, a USB 2.0 LAN
adaptor, an SD memory card bay, four GameCube controller ports, and two GameCube
memory card slots. It looks like HDTV still isn't on the menu, with only
S-video, component, and composite video outputs listed. Finally, the console's
optical drive will support both current 8 cm GameCube discs and "double-layered
12-centimeter optical discs," perhaps meaning dual-layer DVDs.
The console will launch some time in the fourth quarter, a similar time frame
to
the PlayStation 3.
No hints were given regarding price, but Engadget reports Nintendo's Executive
VP of Sales and Marketing Reggie Fills-Aime said, "Wii will give you more fun
for less money," and Joystiq has heard rumors that the console may launch at
around $249.
The Wii just keeps getting better and better in my opinion...
)