During the development phase of the 3DS, a handheld device featuring stereoscopic 3D without the need of accessories, Iwata stated that his background in technology helped keep Nintendo's engineers in line.
Durante o período de desenvolvemento da 3DS, que incluía pantallas estereoscópicas 3D sen necesidade de accesorios, Iwata afirmou que a súa experiencia tecnolóxica axudara a manter a raia aos seus enxeñeiros.