Nintendo has begun shipping the DS Lite in the UK, asking a mere £100 for the redesigned, lighter, smaller version of its handheld console. Taking a lead from Apple's iPod, Nintendo said the DS Lite will be available at launch in two colours: glossy black and shiny white.

The company describes the DS Lite as a "premium" product which will be offered alongside the original version at the same price - though we notice that some suppliers are already discounting the older model.

The new model is lighter and smaller than its predecessor and features an improved display. It plays all existing DS games which, by the DS Lite's launch, will have been joined by Dr Kawashima’s Brain Training: How Old Is Your Brain? and Nintendogs Dalmatian and Friends Edition.

New Super Mario Bros. follows on 30 June, with Electroplankton and Big Brain Academy coming on 7 July, Nintendo said. ®