According to insider info from Nikkei – one of Japan’s largest newspapers – Nintendo’s next operating system (codenamed NX) might run Android.
The software though won’t be the same android you would see on phones and tablets but rather an adaptation of the operating system. Why the move though? According to Nikkei, it is for cross-compatibility with other platforms; developers needed to code their games specifically for the Wii U, making their games go cross-platform a daunting and financially infeasible task.
Whether that’s the only reason though is anyone’s guess. Nintendo heavily relies on first party games, but it would make sense to make it easier for third-party developers to develop games for the platform. But it could also be part of a bigger strategy if the rumour holds true – particularly with their interest in mobile gaming.
Update: The Wall Street Journal reported that Nintendo has denied rumours suggesting the use of Android in their next operating system.
[quote type=”border_left”]There is no truth to the report saying that we are planning to adopt Android for NX,” a Nintendo spokesman said.[/quote]
Source: Kotaku
