Nintendo looks set to expand is offering of 3D capable portable games consoles in the coming months with new reports suggesting the Japanese gaming giant will launch a Nintendo 3DS Lite later this year.

Following the trend set by its two-dimensional screen touting predecessor, the Nintendo 3DS is reportedly heading for a bit of the Atkins treatment, set to shave off a few millimetres and grams to be re-launched as a new 'Lite' model.

Nintendo 3DS Lite Release

"To increase the 3DS's install base, there's a possibility for a lighter version that addresses the handheld's weak points, the thickness and the battery life," Japanese magazine Nikkei Trendy has speculated.

Whilst a potential E3 unveiling of the 3DS Lite would see the slimline console made a reality in June the reports go against comments previously made by Nintendo that stated the 3DS was "fully packed from the start."

Would the availability of a slimmer, lighter, better battery packing 3DS tempt you in to splashing out on the 3D console? Let us know via the comments box below.

Via: CVG