Wii U Update Adds Quick-Start Option

A new Wii U system update available today introduces new features and tweaks for the console, most notable of which is a new Quick-Start Menu. Once you download the update, you'll be able to use the GamePad controller to see the menu (above), which will display icons for your 10 most-used games and apps. You can then select a game/app and it will load as the Wii U boots up. It's all part of Nintendo's ambition to get you playing games like Mario Kart 8 faster.

Details of the tther changes included with today's Wii U update, courtesy of Nintendo, include:

• "An improved user setting and selection experience.
• System updates can now be downloaded and installed when the Wii U console is in standby mode.
• Full-screen alerts and notifications can be displayed on the GamePad controller, even if the system is in standby mode. These notifications will tell Wii U owners about new updates, game releases and promotions from Nintendo. Users can adjust how they receive these notifications.
• Easier Nintendo Network ID setup for new users.
• Notifications can now be accessed from the Home Menu as well as the Wii U Menu."

The Wii U system update will be downloaded automatically if your console is connected to the Internet. Once it's completed, an on-screen alert will appear, prompting you to install it. You can also apply the system update manually by accessing the Wii U's System Settings and selecting System Update.

The new Wii U system update comes shortly after the release of Mario Kart 8, which sold over 1.2 million copies during its first weekend on sale. For more, you can read our review of Mario Kart 8 and what other critics are saying.