Nintendo May Have Licensed the Palm OS

Nintendo is the biggest maker of portable gaming consoles in the world, but its devices are all fun and no business. However, that may be about to change, if a new rumor is correct.

GamerCentric is reporting that Nintendo had recently licensed Palm OS. However, the site doesn't give a source for this information, and it hasn't been confirmed by either Nintendo or PalmSource.

Supposedly, Nintendo isn't going to release a handheld running the Palm OS. Instead, it will create Palm OS-compatible personal information management (PIM) applications for the Nintendo DS, its latest gaming device. Because one of its two displays is a touchscreen, its possible that the Nintendo DS could be used for more than just gaming.

Recently, this company registered "Nintendo V-Pocket" as a trademark, setting off a wave of speculation in the gaming industry as what this will be. According to GamerCentric, this will be the name for its suite of PIM apps.

Taking on the Competition

Apparently, Nintendo hopes that adding some business functions to its gaming console will help it compete better with its arch rival, Sony's Playstation Portable.

If this rumor turns out to be true, it will be bad news for the Tapwave Zodiac, a gaming-oriented handheld that runs the Palm OS. Until now, the Zodiac's biggest advantage over other portable game consoles has been the fact that it can be used for both work and play, an advantage it might be losing.

The Nintendo V-Pocket will reportedly be unveiled at the E3 Expo in May.

Thanks to Sammy at Palm Addict for the tip.

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