Currently, the 3DS only supports friend codes, meaning that to register a friend on your system, you’ll have to ask them for their twelve digit code, give them yours, and both register each other.
A new system software update will bring Nintendo Network IDs to the handheld, and this will be connected to your NNID on the Wii U, as long as you enter the same username when signing up.
This means that your balance will unified across both platforms, which should save you having to top up each separately, and that your friends lists will presumably be available across both, as well as new friends being much easier to register.
Along with this, Miiverse – essentially a discussion portal with social features for all of Nintendo’s games – will be coming to the 3DS, which could offer some interesting opportunities in games as well as a way to see hints and tips, or just general discussion, about what you’re playing.
They also announced a YouTube app for the system, but there’s no word on whether you’ll be able to watch 3D videos.
It’s very much in line with what Sony are doing with the PS3, PS4 and PS Vita, which is great – hopefully we’ll see more cross-compatible games in the future.
Kennykazey
Took them long enough.
Dominic Leighton
Yeah I don’t understand quite why this has taken so long, but then Nintendo only do things at their own pace!
KeRaSh
I’m guessing this still doesn’t tie game purchases to your user account, right? I’m going all digital with my 3DS but if my handheld dies on me and I lose all my games with it, then that might just be the last Nintendo Handheld I have purchased.