Nintendo is the champion of accessories. From the Zapper to the Wii wheel, nearly every Nintendo console generation has been marked with some sort of game-specific add-on. Just look at the Wii controller section of your favorite big box retailer if you want to see this in action.

Now, it looks like Nintendo is plotting yet another add-on for the Wiimote, likely aimed at its upcoming Wii U device.

Essentially, you slide this thingamajig onto the Wiimote, and then use it as a touchpad. The device apparently functions through clever manipulation of mirrors, but I’m not a very smart person so I’m having a hard time following the description. Basically, when you touch the pad, the device works, and when you leave it alone it functions like a normal Wiimote.

Nintendo has noted that possible applications include drawing pads or mouse pointers, but I’m still having a hard time wrapping my mind around what exactly their intent could be. As we know, many patents never see the light of day, so this could be one more odd Nintendo technology that doesn’t quite make it to shelves. I'm not sure audiences can be sold on the idea of drawing with their Wiis, though I do have fond memories of Mario Paint.

What do you think of a Wiimote touchpad? Also, can you make any sense of the diagram?

Via Siliconera

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