Nintendo rocked the boat 2 months ago when they announced the existence of their next console, the “NX”. Since then, a good chunk of the Nintendo community, as well as others have rant and raved over the idea, coming up with all sorts of speculations, like when it will be released, to what it actually is (traditional console or hybrid). Many have also come to the conclusion that Nintendo will be replacing the Wii U next year, despite that not being said. Mr. Iwata is aware of all the chatter that has been going on, and in a recent investors meeting, he went over the topic briefly once again:

“We will not announce any details about NX until 2016. I used the name “NX” during our joint press conference with DeNA on March 17 because we thought that our announcing the business alliance with DeNA to start a smart device business could result in such misunderstanding as “Nintendo is making a transfer to smart devices because it is pessimistic about the future for dedicated video game systems.” I intentionally chose to announce the development of NX so early because I wanted to confirm the fact that we are developing a new dedicated video game platform, that we have never lost passion regarding the future for dedicated video game systems and that we have bright prospects for them. Though I cannot confirm when it will be launched or any other details of the system, since I have confirmed that it will be “a dedicated video game platform with a brand new concept,” it should mean that we do not intend it to become a simple “replacement” for Nintendo 3DS or Wii U.”

“Your question also included the “current notion of thinking about home consoles and handheld devices.” When it comes to how dedicated game systems are being played, the situations have become rather different, especially between Japan and overseas. Since we are always thinking about how to create a new platform that will be accepted by as many people around the world as possible, we would like to offer to them “a dedicated video game platform with a brand new concept” by taking into consideration various factors, including the playing environments that differ by country. This is all that I can confirm today.”

“Taking this opportunity, because we were often asked if we will make any new announcements about NX, smart device applications or QOL at this year’s E3 show, let me confirm that we will not discuss anything about our smart device business or QOL there because, to us, E3 is an event mainly for dedicated video game systems. Also, because we have confirmed that any new information about NX will be announced in 2016, I hope you will understand that if you expect us to discuss NX during the upcoming E3 show, you will just end up being disappointed.”