It seems like the release of Nintendo NX, their next console might be closer than first thought. Wall Street Journal reports that they now have started to ship software development kits for NX and a release during 2016 looks certain according to David Gibson, an analyst at Macquarie Capital Securities: "We are increasingly of the idea that Nintendo might launch the NX in 2016 because of the softness of 3DS and Wii U."
The first and so far only title to be announced for NX is Dragon Quest XI, which will also be released on PlayStation 4 and Nintendo 3DS. Wall Street Journal also writes that "Nintendo would likely include both a console and at least one mobile unit that could either be used in conjunction with the console or taken on the road for separate use."
That way they would get both a new console and a new handheld at the same time. A pricey solution, especially if they also want to have competitive digital horse power, which they do according to the same source: "Nintendo would aim to put industry-leading chips in the NX devices, after criticism that the Wii U's capabilities didn't match those of competitors."
It remains to be seen when the new Nintendo president Tatsumi Kimishima will reveal the NX. But if it it will launch during 2016, we probably won't have to wait much longer for its reveal. GDC in March, or perhaps even sooner than that?