This was predicted by many after the DeNA announcement. This also likely indicates the switch from resistive to capacative screens (gorilla glass I hope). Nintendo's ready to explore and perfect the current mobile standard, but featuring buttons (haptic?) & sticks.
As far as entering into a "NX mode", I think it'll just be a NX hw exclusive app, featuring the eshop within that app, so that ppl continue normal use of quick android app switching.








