TOKYO -- Playing wireless hand-held video games on Japanese airplanes no longer will be allowed after a revised law enforcing an earlier ban went into effect Monday.

Previously, passengers were asked by airlines to refrain from using gaming systems with built-in wireless functions, like Nintendo's popular DS.

But Japan's transport ministry has concluded that the electromagnetic waves emitted by the consoles have the ability to interfere with aircraft navigation systems and other devices.

Passengers still will be permitted to use game systems that lack integral wireless communication functions.

The law also has been relaxed to permit the use of electric razors, calculators and cassette players.

Wireless computer mouses have also been banned aboard flights, along with headphones that are not provided by the airlines. Battery chargers and toys that give off electronic sounds can't be used during take-offs and landings, the ministry said.

Courtesy of The Hollywood Reporter



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