Now this is cool...

In its Electronic Entertainment Industry Update released today, TNI Securities reports that the recently revealed headset port on the Nintendo DS will be used in conjunction with the built-in wireless 802.11b networking capabilities to offer voice-over-IP chat--in effect, allowing gamers to use the DS to make free phone calls at wireless network hotspots.

But the real thing that interested me in the article is it says the DS will be out in 2004 in the United States. This, just as I was about to buy a Game Boy Advance because of recent price drops, makes me think again. I guess I can wait a few months (if I've already waited this long...what's a little longer?) and get the DS with built in 802.11b along with the cool dual screens and then I can again start reliving my childhood through Zelda, Super Mario Bros. and Excitebike.

URL: Analyst note: Nintendo DS invites free voice-over-IP chat - News at GameSpot