In a recent interview with Redmond-based Nintendo of America, network marketing manager Darren Smith said it would be easy to allow the DS handheld player to access the Web. The hardware is ready for it. Nintendo just needs to give the green light.

Looks like that will happen in Japan soon. Oslo, Norway-based Opera Software said it has reached an agreement with Nintendo that will let DS users in Japan access the Web using Opera's browser. Users will need to insert a special card into the DS and connect to a network to begin browsing.

Nintendo has sold about 13 million DS systems worldwide since the device debuted in November 2004. No word on whether the DS browser will make it to America.