Nintendo adds Opera browser to Wii

Nintendo and Opera Browser will soon bring the power of Internet directly to users’ television screen with a free beta version of the long-awaited Opera Web browser, as the companies announced that a trial version of the browser will be released for download on December 22.

The final version of Opera Web browser, specifically created for the gaming console and which will be branded as the Internet Channel on the Wii menu, is scheduled for release in spring 2007. The browser will be available as a free download through the end of June 2007, and will cost 500 points, the currency used for purchases via the console or $5 after that time.

The owners of Nintendo’s most popular Wii home video game system, who are connected and have activated the Wii Shop Channel, can download a free beta version of the Opera browser to activate the Internet Channel of the Wii Menu and begin surfing the Web.

Talking about the latest addition the company has made to their gaming device, which has the potential to not only draw in the gamers but even those who have never tried their hand in the field of gaming, the President for the North American division of Nintendo says, "This newest Wii Menu channel provides yet another feature to draw non-gamers in."

"All kinds of people already have discovered that Wii is like nothing they have ever tried before, and our red-hot sales reflect this public enthusiasm," he added.

Besides Disc Channel, Photo Channel, Mii Channel and Wii Shop Channel, as well as the recently launched Forecast Channel, the Nintendo’s Wii channel menu now include the Internet channel.

The beta version of the Opera browser will support Adobe's Flash technology, and will put the Internet right onto users' television screens, enabling them to navigate sites with the help of an on-screen keyboard.

"Our software brings the power and reach of the Internet to the hottest video game system available. Wii’s unique interface adds a new dimension to our browser, making it a useful tool that the whole family will enjoy operating with ease," said Scott Hedrick, Executive Vice President, Devices, at Opera Software.

By adding more to its revolutionary gaming device, Nintendo is apparently trying to compete more effectively as a general lounge room device with its console rivals from Microsoft and Sony.

Recently, Nintendo has faced immense criticism for a defective wrist strap it attached to a signature remote for its wildly popular Wii gaming console.

Last week the gaming console company announced to replace 3.2 million flimsy Wii straps on its own cost, after widespread reports of controllers flying out of the hands of overly energetic players, cracking televisions and other devices.