The Friend Code-protected voice chat feature works with Animal Crossing as an in-game service. It will also be available as an independent chat channel, that will be accessible through the Wii's main menu. Called the Wii Speak Channel, the service will be free to those who purchase the Animal Crossing/Wii Speak bundle, as well as to those who purchase the microphone separately.

The Wii Speak accessory is going to be sold separately for US$29.99, or in the aforementioned Animal Crossing bundle for $69.99. The Wii Speak accessory comes with a code that allows users to download the voice chat Channel for no additional charge.

The Wii Speak Channel will be available via the Wii Shop Channel in December, according to a Nintendo.

Nintendo is promising worldwide chat functionality with the Wii Speak Channel, so long as you get those Friend Codes buttoned up beforehand.