Wii TV Technology: TV tuner coming for Nintendo console?

New Wii Patent suggests TV tuner for Wii - Image 1The Xbox 360 has XBL Live Video Marketplace. The PlayStation 3 will get PlayTV and BD Live. Will the Wii have something to offer in this arena soon? A new patent by A-Ha! Toys seems to be pointing at that idea. Full story after the “read more” link below.

New Wii Patent suggests TV tuner for Wii - Image 1

Nintendo will be trying the waters of online services with the release of their online games via WiiWare. However, that’s just a drop in the bucket compared to the online services offered by the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360.

One of the more prominent strengths of the Sony and Microsoft consoles are their video services. The 360 has the XBL Video Marketplace, while the PlayStation 3 will soon get PlayTV and BD Live. But what can the Wii offer in this arena?

According to a trademark filed by A-Ha! Toys, we could probably see a similar service for the Wii. Their trademark is called “Wii TV Technology” and is described as:

Electronic games and toys, of a internal, non-cartridge based platform on Wired Intuitive Interaction, includes hand held devices, wired TV based devices.

This suggests a TV tuner of some sort, similar to the one for PlayTV – although it’s doubtful the Wii will have the same DVR features because of the console’s limited storage space. However, it does sound like an interesting venture for the Wii.

The mention of “handheld” devices could also suggest some interactivity with the Nintendo DS. Perhaps WiFi broadcasting between the platforms? Well, we can dream. We’ll keep an eye out for developments, so check back for updates.

Via United States Patent and Trademark Office

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