NVIDIA, the company that designs graphics chips and chips for smartphones and tablets, is going to try something a little bit different this year. They’re going to launch a portable gaming console called Shield. It runs Android, which is why I’m writing about it here, but more importantly it packs the company’s newest Tegra 4 silicon.

Now I’ve debated writing about Shield because I have strong negative feelings towards dedicated devices. Most people don’t buy cameras anymore, they use their phone. Almost no one uses a bedside alarm clock anymore, they use their phone. And the same goes with gaming. Sure, some people will gladly buy a console to connect to the large television in their living room, but portable gaming? Isn’t that what a phone is for?

Back to the Shield, it backs a built-in 5 inch 720p screen, that previously mentioned Tegra 4, 2 GB of RAM, mini-HDMI out, and some really good speakers. You’ll need WiFi for connectivity, so no 3G. Sorry. And that’s it. It’s basically an XBOX controller with a screen, and it’s going to cost you $350. You’ll be able to pre-order one next week, May 20th, with June being the target date for initial shipments.

What do you guys think, does the Shield interest you, or is it a waste of time?