The Wii U has just got a big firmware update.
Here’s the full list of changes/additions, courtesy of Nintendo:
Version 4.0.0 U, available via an Internet connection, includes the following improvements:
New Features:
A feature to output video and sound to the Wii U GamePad when using Wii ModeÂą Users can choose to output to the TV and GamePad, or just the TV
A feature to automatically receive recommended software and demo titles from Nintendo using SpotPass
Support for USB keyboards
An option to disable use of a Nintendo Network ID on non-Nintendo hardware, such as PCs and smartphones
Support for Dolby® Pro Logic® II Surround Sound when playing Wii software Changes to Wii U Menu:
Added a friend list icon to the Wii U Menu for easier access to the Friend List Changes to System Settings:
An option to automatically receive recommended software is now available under “Internet”
A setting to select which cable outputs sound is available through “TV”
Users can choose to output sound through an HDMI cable, non-HDMI cable, or both cables at the same time. Click here for instructions
A setting to adjust the hourly interval in which standby functions are performed is available under “Power Settings” when Standby Functions are enabled Changes to Wii U Chat:
Added the option to view a friend’s profile on Miiverse when sending or receiving a chat request
Users can now chat using a headset connected to the Wii U GamePad Changes to Internet Browser:
Pressing the R or L Buttons on the Wii U GamePad will skip video playback forward/back a small amount of time
Holding the R Button will speed up video playback Ability to save username and passwords for websites that require login²
Ability to launch the Internet Browser during gameplay and upload screenshots Added support for viewing PDF filesÂł
Added features intended for website developers that allow the user to enable developer tools and set user agent Improvements to system stability and usability:
Further improvements to overall system stability and other minor adjustments have been made to enhance the user experience
That first one sounds amazing, but there’s a catch: “Wii software displayed on the Wii U GamePad cannot be controlled by the GamePad. This feature only allows Wii software to be displayed on the GamePad. A Wii Remote Plus or Wii Remote is required to play Wii software titles.”
Sadly, the console’s biggest problem – sluggish menu load times – doesn’t appear any better.
