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Japanese games giant Nintendo has taken the wraps off the latest iteration of the DS.

As the name suggests, the 3DS has jumped on the 3D bandwagon and can display three dimensional images, but without the need for special 3D glasses.

Nintendo stated that they had totally overhauled the graphics and display system, and that the new handheld console is to replace the current DS.

The 3DS features a couple of camera lenses, which will enable you to take three dimensional photographs and view them.

One of the technical challenges Nintendo faced when designing the new handheld was the incompatibility of using a touch screen interface with a three dimensional display. Consequently, only the top screen of the gadget features 3D, whilst the bottom one is used as a control interface.

The 3D visual effect is created using something called a parallax barrier. A second liquid crystal display screen sits on top of the main screen and allows the user to see a different set of pixels by displaying a series of thin lines. This creates the illusion of a third dimension. It’s also possible to switch the 3D aspect off completely.

Nintendo stated that the new console will hit the high street late in 2010 and have so far not hinted at a price. However, as with any new Nintendo handheld, it is sure to be popular, so you will want to make sure you have games console insurance as it’s unlikely you will leave this at home should you be among the first to get one.

Among the other new features, Nintendo has included a Wi Fi connection that is ‘always on’, which will automatically update games and player statistics. The internet service which will provide the updates will operate 24 hours a day and is free to use.

Of course, what makes or breaks a console are its games, and Nintendo stated that there are several big titles in development. The first game that will be released for the handheld is Kid Icarus Uprising, but other titles in the works include Metal Gear Solid, DJ Hero 3D, Resident Evil Revelations, Assassin’s Creed: Lost Legacy, Batman and Saints Row: Drive By.