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After delay, Google Street View comes to Wii U -- in Japan

Street View on Nintendo's GamePad lets users see a complete 360-degree view of roadways around the world.

Don Reisinger
CNET contributor Don Reisinger is a technology columnist who has covered everything from HDTVs to computers to Flowbee Haircut Systems. Besides his work with CNET, Don's work has been featured in a variety of other publications including PC World and a host of Ziff-Davis publications.
Don Reisinger
A look at Street View on the Wii U.
A look at Street View on the Wii U. Screen Capture by Don Reisinger/CNET

Google's Street View is now available to Wii U owners in Japan.

Nintendo announced the availability of Street View in its eShop today. The application can be downloaded to the Wii U for free and works on both the GamePad and the television through the console.

On the GamePad, Street View provides a full 360-degree view of the world's streets. While holding the GamePad, users can move it up, down, left, and right to see different views. In addition, the app will display Street View images on the television. If users decide to look at Street View on the GamePad, they can look at the position on a map on the television.

Nintendo had initially planned to launch Street View on the Wii U in January. When the company announced the feature in December, it said that it would offer Street View downloads for free through March. After that, Nintendo said that it would charge a fee for the application, though it didn't say how much it would cost.

The application will now be offered for free through May, since it launched later than expected. Nintendo hasn't said when Street View will come to other markets.

CNET has contacted Nintendo for comment on Street View. We will update this story when we have more information.

(Via The Verge)