As expected, Nintendo launched the new DSi handheld gaming device in Japan over the weekend, and already it looks like the firm has sold out of its initial retail allocation of 200,000 units. This is the first refresh to the DS line in two years, bringing with it a slightly larger screen, an inbuilt camera, internal memory for downloadable games and apps, and full online connectivity.

The updated handheld is selling for around 18,900 Yen, or the equivalent of approximately $179. Nintendo said it will be shipping out another 100,000 to stores this week, perhaps looking to break a previous record of 450,000 DS Lite units sold during its first month on the market. No date for an overseas launch of the DSi has been provided but it is expected to happen before or around summer 2009.