Nintendo Sorts Out Wii Channel Problems

Easier to find what you've bought, and stuff.

One recent benefit of modern consoles is the ability for manufacturers to smarten up and improve the functionality of their machines, by applying virtual updates to the console after it's bought. Updating the firmware in this way has already seen Xbox 360 benefit from a new 1080p video display mode (formerly only thought possible on PS3), while Sony's super console will also be getting the new Home service built straight into the Cross Media Bar interface.

But in a new firmware update for the Wii, Nintendo has seen fit to spruce up its own front end too. Firmware version 3.0 is now available for download, offering an improved layout in the Wii Shop Channel as well as a series of interface improvements.

Other channels are seeing improvements as well, largely thanks to the overlooked always-on Internet connection that many Wii consoles benefit from. The Forecast Channel now provides accurate weather updates, and the News Channel offers real headlines. It's all still a bit on the basic side though for the time being.

One key improvement on the Shop Channel is that Nintendo has made it much more obvious where you're supposed to access the games you have paid for and downloaded - previously a bit of an awkward process - while the ability to search through your downloaded titles is another handy addition.

Here's a full list of the improvements and additions in the new firmware update:

• Clock added to the Wii Menu
• Forecast Channel now displays the current conditions
• News Channel can now show two scrolling headlines at a time
• Message Board now has the today's accomplishments message
• Address Book entries can now be shifted around using A+B to empty spaces
• Calendar in Message Board no longer shows today's accomplishments
• Scrolling messages in the Message Board now uses a different sound
• New Welcome screen detailing four recommended titles in Wii Shop Channel
• Titles you've downloaded moved to the main shop menu
• Search for a title, popular titles, by category, by system and by publisher.

Kikizo Staff