Prior to its release, the Nintendo DS was marketed as a 'third pillar' in Nintendo's console lineup, meant to complement the Game Boy Advance and GameCube. Alternatively, they can interact online using the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection service. The Nintendo DS also features the ability for multiple DS consoles to directly interact with each other over Wi-Fi within a short range without the need to connect to an existing wireless network. Both screens are encompassed within a clamshell design similar to the Game Boy Advance SP. The DS, short for 'Developers' System' or 'Dual Screen', introduced distinctive new features to handheld gaming: two LCD screens working in tandem (the bottom one featuring a touchscreen), a built-in microphone, and support for wireless connectivity. The device went on sale in North America on November 21, 2004. (ニンテンドーDS Nintendō DS?) is a dual-screen handheld game console developed and released by Nintendo.
