The Nintendo WiFi Connection has now logged over 3 million connections... and counting. 1000 new DS-capable hotspots planned for England.

Nintendo's WiFi Connection, less than three months in existence, has already logged its 3 millionth connection. With the figure representing over 500k unique users, Nintendo's service is on track to surpass Microsoft's commendable effort in launching their Xbox Live service (which had its millionth account about 18 months after launch). Thus far, WiFi Connection has served as the portal to Mario Kart DS worldwide, Animal Crossing: Wild World in the US and Japan, and Tony Hawk's American Wasteland in the US.

During a recent gaming event held in the UK, Nintendo UK general manager David Yarnton espoused the service's success and confirmed that huge support would be ongoing in the coming months. Along with Animal Crossing: Wild World expected to boost WiFi Connection usage considerably upon its planned March release in Europe, Nintendo UK is committing to the planned rollout of 1000 new DS-compatible hotspots around the country.

The event was held at the Science Museum in conjunction with the company's announcement that they would be sponsoring the museum for the next four years (an agreement estimated at GBP 1 million) in offering new attractions aimed at drawing new audiences.