Wii U update brings improved loading times, standby downloads to Nintendo console
Nintendo have begun rolling out their long-awaited Wii U system update, bringing significantly improved loading times to the console as well as laying “the groundwork for the imminent launch of the Wii U Virtual Console service,” which will allow retro games to be downloaded and played on the Wii U with a future update.
Among a list of stability fixes and system tweaks, the update also decreases the wait time endured when switching between applications, allows for downloads and game installations to be carried out with the game in standby mode, adds new control options for the built-in web browser and lets users swap game files between two connected USB storage devices.
The full list of changes is as follows:
Version 3.0.0 U improvements:
New Features:
- A standby function to download and install software while the system is powered off
- Software purchased from the Nintendo eShop will automatically install in the background once the download is complete
- Holding down the B Button while the Wii U logo is displayed during startup will load the Wii Menu *¹
Changes to System Settings:
- An option to transfer and/or copy between two USB storage devices in “Data Management”
- To facilitate this feature, you will now be able to connect two USB storage devices to a single Wii U console*²
- The ability to select multiple software titles when transferring, copying, or deleting data in “Data Management”
- The option to adjust screen size is now available under “TV” *³
- “Auto Power-Down” has been renamed “Power Settings”
- Options for the standby function are located within this menu
Changes to Miiverse:
- Added support for the Wii Remote, Wii U Pro Controller, and Classic Controller
- Handwritten posts will now also display on the TV screen during creation
- “Undo” and “Redo” buttons are now available when creating a handwritten post
- Removed screen size setting. This option can now be adjusted from System Settings
Changes to Nintendo eShop:
- Software downloaded from the Nintendo eShop will include released updates and will no longer need to be updated after installation
- Removed screen size setting. This option can now be adjusted from System Settings
Changes to the Internet Browser:
- Added support for the Wii Remote and Wii U Pro Controller
- Added the option to change search engines when performing a keyword search
- Added the option to return to the start page from the bookmark menu
- Removed screen size setting. This option can now be adjusted from System Settings
Changes to Download Management:
- Added the option to change the priority of downloads
Improvements to system stability and usability:
- Further improvements to overall system stability and other minor adjustments have been made to enhance the user experience
*¹ User selection may be necessary
*² Only one USB storage device can be used during normal use
*³ A similar option has been removed from Nintendo eShop, Miiverse, and the Internet Browser
