Skype heading to Nintendo DSi?

Skype is technically possible on Nintendo DSi, a Skype rep confirms with TechRadar
Skype is technically possible on Nintendo DSi, a Skype rep confirms with TechRadar

It looks highly likely that leading VoIP software Skype will be heading to the Nintendo DSi at some point in the near future, with the company exclusively confirming with TechRadar that it would be technically possible to develop a version for Nintendo's new handheld.

The news follows a slew of speculative "Nintendo to develop mobile phone capabilities" stories earlier this month, spinned out from quotes made by the company's feted Creative Director, Shigeru Miyamoto.

Miyamoto dropped a hint about the future DSi strategy at GDC, telling journalists he was "interested in [a system with which] when you're walking in town with your DS, you can use various services."

Which, of course, is vague enough to mean everything and almost nothing at the same time, in typical Nintendo fashion!

No costly contracts

However, Nintendo President Satoru Iwata has said in the past that the company would not want to develop a mobile phone type device which required a costly monthly contract.

Which is exactly where leading VoIP service Skype comes into the equation.

"Skype's growth strategy is focused on product enhancements that will increase user delight, engagement, and adoption of paid services," a Skype rep told TechRadar when we asked them if a DSi version of the software was imminent. "This includes extending the Skype infrastructure and platform to bring Skype functionality wherever, whenever, and on whatever device or site people choose to use it."

Okay. So that's the general strategy. But what about Skype on DS? There's already a PSP version available, so surely it makes sense to develop for Nintendo's world-beating handheld.

"Skype is extending its lead with a focus on rapid innovation, which delivers the new features and products people want, and by integrating Skype software and services into other open platforms with recent examples including the Skype application for the iPhone and iPod Touch, Intel-based MIDs, Nokia N97, and a Lite version of Skype for Java-enabled mobile phones."

Most interestingly (and pertinently) the Skype rep added: "Whilst we can't comment on any future plans to bring Skype to Nintendo's DSi, it would technically be possible."

Which, in a very roundabout way, sounds very much like a 'yes' to us. TechRadar will bring you more info on Skype for Nintendo DSi as and when we get it.

Adam Hartley
Latest in Nintendo
Samus Aran leaping through space
Metroid Prime 4 tipped to be at the heart of April's Nintendo Switch 2 deep-dive
Nintendo Switch 2
Nintendo Switch 2 expected to have AI upscaling and I can't wait to finally play Tears of the Kingdom with upgraded graphics
The Hori Split Pad Pro attached to a Nintendo Switch OLED and placed on a colorful desk mat.
I've used the Hori Split Pad Pro with my Nintendo Switch for years and it's still great, but there are some better options in 2025
An image of the Nintendo Switch 2
Nintendo Switch 2 patent suggests you’ll be able to use the console upside down for some reason
Monster Hunter Wilds
Monster Hunter Wilds producer discusses potential Nintendo Switch 2 port: 'we'd need to take our time to get to know the exact nature of the hardware'
Nintendo Switch 2 rumored mouse mode
I don't care what the haters say, the Nintendo Switch 2's rumored mouse mode is by far the most exciting feature coming to the new console
Latest in News
DeepSeek
Deepseek’s new AI is smarter, faster, cheaper, and a real rival to OpenAI's models
Open AI
OpenAI unveiled image generation for 4o – here's everything you need to know about the ChatGPT upgrade
Apple WWDC 2025 announced
Apple just announced WWDC 2025 starts on June 9, and we'll all be watching the opening event
Hornet swings their weapon in mid air
Hollow Knight: Silksong gets new Steam metadata changes, convincing everyone and their mother that the game is finally releasing this year
OpenAI logo
OpenAI just launched a free ChatGPT bible that will help you master the AI chatbot and Sora
An aerial view of an Instavolt Superhub for charging electric vehicles
Forget gas stations – EV charging Superhubs are using solar power to solve the most annoying thing about electric motoring