Nintendo has announced via its Japanese website that the Wii no Ma video download service will go live on May 1.

The advertising-based service, which will initially be offered in Japan only, is a collaboration between Nintendo, which will handle its development and management, and media firm Dentsu, which will be responsible for sourcing original video content.

Upon launch users will be able to download the Wii no Ma Channel for free from the Wii Shopping Channel, reports Andriasang. They can then register up to eight Miis for the service, which appears in the style of a virtual living room.

As well as original programming, which has yet to be detailed, the Wii no Ma Channel will feature a space for partner companies. This area will offer promotional videos for products, and users will be able to have product samples delivered to a pre-registered address.

DSi owners will be able to connect to the service by downloading a free program called Dokodemo Wii no Ma (Anywhere Wii no Ma) from the DSi Shop from May 1. They will then be able to download programming to their handheld for viewing on the go.

Nintendo president Satoru Iwata has previously confirmed that he would like to roll the service out in the west if it is successful in Japan.

A Japanese video detailing the service can be viewed here.