A Nintendo patent reveals instant messenger software for the Wii... and with it, information on user profiles and more!

Yes, it is another uncovered patent, though this one couldn't be more specific. United States patent 7056217 by Nintendo was published yesterday (June 6th, 2006). Here's an excerpt:

Title: Messaging service for video game systems with buddy list that displays game being played

Description: A messaging system includes a web server computer and at least two video game systems. Each game system is configured to connect to the web server computer via the Internet and to communicate status data indicative of an activity engaged in by a user thereof. The web server computer generates a session file indicative of user status and the status of each of two or persons on a buddy list of the user.

The service gives users a unique user profile for others to check out. You could (or not, if you so choose) enter details such as your name, age, personal details, favorite game, game high scores and other records from games. Included would be an avatar, made up from user-selected features (e.g., a particular nose, mouth, mustache, etc.) - anyone thinking about the faces used in the E3 Wii Sports demo here? Support for images captured by digital camera is also talked of being supported.

The messaging part would allow the user to create a buddy list, and communicate via text or voice chat. An on-screen keyboard would be used, or alternatively an external one that is plugged in to the console. Another implementation would be a microphone to enable voice over IP communications.

Features in the software would include the View Associate List, Block List, User Preferences, Profile, Access, Status, Rules list, Alerts and Autostart Alerts. It even mentions the possibility of a portable console using this service (the DS?).

While this does not serve as official confirmation of any of these features, it certainly seems Nintendo has been busy planning. And when Nintendo does announce more about the Wii, we'll be there to confirm the details for you!