Nintendo 3DS eShop and Web browser go live

Nintendo 3DS owners can finally access the Web browser and online shop promised to them in May, thanks to a free firmware update.

The browser doesn't support Flash but will render compatible Web pages in 3D and allow users to download 3D images to the console. It can be accessed during gameplay simply by pressing the home button, and users can also upload photos taken with the built-in camera to their favourite pic-sharing sites.

The so-called eShop allows users to download both free and paid-for content, including original 3D software, 3D-remastered classic games, 2D Game Boy and Game Boy Color titles and a library of DSiWare games. There'll also be game trailers, screenshots and product information.

Newly available games include the Game Boy titles Super Mario Land, Alleyway and Tennis, with additional content being added to the store every Thursday.

Anyone upgrading before 7 July can grab a free download of Excitebike remastered in 3D. Also available is Pokédex 3D, which lets users collect data for over 150 Pokémon and then see, hear and interact with them in 3D, as well engage in augmented-reality japes.

Nintendo DSi and DSi XL owners can now also transfer most DSiWare games to the 3DS.

Finally, the update allows the 3DS to receive SpotPass content, including 3D film trailers and music videos, from public Wi-Fi hotspots.

To upgrade, ensure you're connected to your home wireless network and then access 'system settings' from the home menu, select 'other settings' and then scroll right to select 'system update'. Nintendo's servers are a tad busy at the moment, but everyone should get through eventually.