Iwata confirms plans to increase Wii production

Nintendo president Satoru Iwata has admitted that the company failed to accurately predict demand for Wii, confirming that production of the console is now being ramped up.

As reported by the Associated Press, Iwata told reporters, "We must do our best to fix this abnormal lack of stock. We have not been able to properly foresee demand."

Iwata declined to discuss how many Wii units are being manufactured each month - or figures for increased production. However, he did say that deliveries will be increased by next month, adding, "We will do our best to offer the machine for those who are waiting."

The Nintendo president also confirmed that the company is producing 2.5 million DS units per month - the highest ever rate of manufacture for a Nintendo console.

Iwata's comments came just a day after Nintendo announced record financial results for the year ending March 31. The company posted a 77 per cent rise in profits, which it attributed to high sales of the Wii and DS.

A Nintendo spokesperson yesterday confirmed to GamesIndustry.biz that Wii production is set to increase, stating, "We have put solid production plans in place to ensure a steady flow of product through 2007."