Unauthorized 'amiiqo' device stores amiibo data, impersonates them on Wii U (update)

A device that allows players to store their amiibo collection's data on a single disc is likely to attract attention from Nintendo, especially as it comes pre-loaded with data for 10 figurines.

As first noticed by Eurogamer, the amiiqo is currently taking pre-orders in the U.K. for £49.75 ($78.02 currently). It will begin shipping on Friday. The Amiiqo also requires an Android device with near-field communication compatibility to operate.

The product description says it comes with 10 figures pre-loaded on it, including "5 unreleased" but it doesn't specify if this is data for existing, official amiibo, homebrewed characters or both. The product appears not to be authorized by Nintendo.

Users download an app to their Android device, then use it to transfer the data from figurines to the device. "The image can be from a 'blank' (new, unplayed) figurine but also from a amiibo that was already leveled up or with power-ups, making it a super effective cheat system," the device's makers write.

The amiiqo is then used in place of a figurine, bringing the last used figure into the game. The amiiqo can cycle through the figures with a button press. Up to 200 figurines can be stored in it.

Update: Made aware of amiiqo, Nintendo gave this statement to Polygon:

"Nintendo actively monitors threats to its product security and the unauthorized use of its intellectual property. Nintendo will vigorously enforce its intellectual property rights and will work to protect its greatest assets, its beloved characters and products."

The product page says "added compatibility, cheat system and new transfer/control methods & apps" will come after the product ships on Friday. It would appear to mean that amiibo data files could be shared or downloaded once that feature arrives

Here is a video of it in action: