In Japan, and presumably worldwide, the 3DS eShop will not be released in May as previously promised.

Prior to the launch of the 3DS Nintendo stated that the console's eShop function would not be available until May and fans have eagerly awaited more news. Seeing as we're nearly half way through the month people began to question whether it would in fact be out this month.

Andriasang note that the Japanese Nintendo website lists a firmware update schedule for June 7th. The update specifically mentions the Internet Browser and eShop so it is definitely the one gamers have been waiting for.

June 7th is of course the day of Nintendo's press conference at E3 so perhaps they are to announce further details about the service at the event. At present the status of the European and American launches remains unknown but it is a safe bet to say that they too have been pushed back.

UPDATE:
It has now been confirmed by Nintendo of Europe that the eShop update will be available to European 3DS owners on June 7th. 3DS owners Stateside will be able to upgrade there handhelds a day earlier on June 6th.