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Zeebo console to offer 3G game downloads

23.03.2009
Monday, Zeebo, Inc officially announced its upcoming Zeebo console, which will enable players to download all games over a wireless 3G signal, the same high-speed connection used by popular smartphones such as the . The Zeebo is aimed at the growing group of middle-class consumers. The claims it will launch next month in Brazil in "limited quantities." The Brazil launch in April will "be followed by broader rollouts in Latin America, Asia and beyond," the website states, hinting at a North American release.

Judging by the few we have seen, the Zeebo doesn't appear to be a graphics powerhouse like the PS3 or the Xbox 360. Important details such as controller features, launch game lineup, and pricing specifics (including possible 3G data plan subscription fees) are also unknown as this time. But based on the press release, it's apparent that Zeebo is aimed to be an affordable, mainstream game console. So far, Capcom, EA, Namco, and THQ headline third-party support, but that may change as more information is made publicly available.

We'll have more details on the Zeebo as we attend GDC 2009 this week. Check back for updates!

Full Zeebo press release follows.

Zeebo Wireless Videogame Console Provides Publishers and Developers With 3G Wireless Distribution, Direct Access to Consumers and Lower Development Costs

SAN FRANCISCO, March 23 -- Leading game publishers and developers from around the world signaled their continued support for Zeebo, the first affordable 3D videogame console designed specifically for emerging global markets. The innovative console will launch in Brazil next month. The console features secure 3G wireless game delivery and addresses the special requirements of these regions where current generation videogame consoles are expensive for the middle class and software piracy is rampant.