Iwata: Wii U controller might support facial recognition

Nintendo president Satoru Iwata has revealed that the built-in camera of the Wii U's controller may eventually support facial recognition.

"It certainly seems possible from an engineering standpoint that the camera will recognize you if you position the new controller to look at you", the Nintendo president said, speaking in the latest edition of Iwata Asks.

He cited WiiFit as an example of why exactly that might prove to be useful - the Wii U reveal trailer showed that the controller can be used in conjunction with the Balance Board enabling you to weigh yourself without using a TV.

Iwata explained that having facial recognition would simplify the entire process.

"It would be much more accessible if all you have to do is to hold it, press a button and stand on the Wii Balance Board."

Nintendo developer extraordinaire Shigeru Miyamoto nodded in agreement. "I think so" and "I hope it turns out that way".

Only time will tell if it indeed turns out to be the case.