Wii-phone incoming?

Nintendo's let slip plans for a gaming phone. Get set to lose even more thumb time to Ninty's all powerful console.

We thought Nintendo had plans for a VoIP service for Wii several months ago, when we heard murmurs that the Wiimote would come packing a microphone. Now we've caught sight of plans for a full-blown Nintendo phone.

Ninty's plans, made public by the US patent office, show a Mario-toting mobile, complete with gaming keys and dialing buttons.

We've no idea if Nintendo plan to release such a device, but given the Wii's affinity for online services we wouldn't be surprised to see it act as a home hub for a VoIP service. Maybe this is the handset you'd use to access it?

Its definitely one to watch. Keep it here for more news as we hear it.