Nintendo have announced a larger version of their 3DS handheld console, surprising most who were expecting a Lite version of the 3DS to arrive first.

The 3DS XL (3DS LL in Japan) will have feature two enlarged screens, increasing in size from 3.53″ to 4.88″ for the top display and from 3″ to 4.18″ for the lower touchscreen.

The console is expected to become available in Japan and Europe on 28 July. Japanese pricing has been given as 18,900 yen but no European pricing has been announced. North America will see the unit go on sale on 19 August for $199.99.

Europe (and probably South Africa) will be getting the Red, Blue and Silver versions of the handheld console, which will ship with a 4GB memory card. Unfortunately the oversized 3DS will not be incorporating a second thumbpad.

Source: Engadget