Where Japan’s color download era began
At a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Released | November 23, 2009 (Japan) |
| Screen | Color |
| Region | Japan-exclusive |
| Connectivity | Infrared + download station |
| Standout feature | First downloadable content |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
What Is It?
The Tamagotchi iD launched in Japan on November 23, 2009 — the franchise’s 13th anniversary — and kicked off the “color golden age.” It was the first Tamagotchi that could download content: items, accessories, wallpapers, and games, originally pulled in over infrared from the tama-id.com website and later through a dedicated download station.
Key Features
- Downloadable content — the first device to expand itself with new items and games after purchase.
- Wearable accessories — dress your Tamagotchi for the first time.
- New destinations and guest characters to visit and meet.
- Anime tie-in — the first device to sync with a Tamagotchi anime season’s characters and locations.
Is It Worth Getting Today?
For collectors and color-era fans. The iD started everything that made the Japanese color devices special, but it was quickly refined by its successor. It is Japan-exclusive, so you will need to import — and most fans recommend stepping up to the more polished iD L.
Part of the iD / P’s color era — see also the iD L, the P’s, and the full iD / P’s era overview.