Nintendo helps Wii owners get a grip

Nintendo is to offer free non-slip covers for Wii-mote controllers

Nintendo is providing all Wii owners with free non-slip covers for their Wii-mote controllers after complaints that the devices become slippery during use.

The firm said that it will bundle the covers with all Wii consoles from next week.

"We are always looking for ways to improve our products and make sure everyone has a safe and fun experience," said George Harrison, senior vice president of marketing and corporate communications at Nintendo America.

"Many electronics manufacturers provide similar protective covers for products like cellphones, PDAs and MP3 players."

Third-party manufacturers have already made similar covers, but Nintendo will be giving away the Wii Remote Jacket with the console and new Wii-motes from 15 October.

The controllers already come with a wrist strap to prevent the controller flying off if the user loses grip, but even these were prone to breaking.

Existing Wii owners who wish to obtain covers for their controllers need to fill in a Wii Remote Jacket Request Form on Nintendo's website. The company will provide up to four per console.