CNN already speculated that Nintendo would announce a new GBA today. This has now been confirmed by Nintendo. The most popular game system in history is getting a facelift.

The upgraded system will feature a flip-up, back-lit color screen and will cost 99$US. The Advance SP includes lighting along the screen's edge. For the first time, it also comes with a rechargeable battery pack instead of depending on disposable AA cells. The battery pack lasts about 10 hours including the light and up to 18 hours with the light off.

According to Nintendo, Advance SP is compatible with all previous Game Boy cartridges.

Shaped like a cosmetics compact, the SP has its 2.4-by-1.6 inch screen built into its lid and unfolds vertically. It folds into a 3-inch square about an inch thick � nearly half the size of earlier units.

The GBA SP is due for a release on the 23rd of March in America. We expect the European date to be announced in a few hours at the Nintendo Press Conference! Stay tuned for this and more later today as we cover the Nintendo Press Conference...

UPDATE 1:

Nintendo of Europe announced the new GBA will be launched on the March 28 in Europe!

Here a few pics of the new GBA and its logo!

Click Images for Full Size

UPDATE 2:

David Gosen, Managing Director, Nintendo of Europe stated, "With the launch of Game Boy Advance SP, Nintendo will be able to place their gaming expertise into the hands of new users who value outstanding design as highly as technology. There's an incredible range of games already available, and an ever-increasing number designed for players who may not have held a console since the days of Tetris. Following the incredible success of the Game Boy Advance, this is a very exciting time for Nintendo and an exceptional start to 2003."

Game Boy Advance SP will be available across Europe from March 28th 2003, priced at around �129 - �139.