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| type = [[Home video game console]]
 
| type = [[Home video game console]]
 
| generation = [[Seventh generation of video game consoles|Seventh generation]]
 
| generation = [[Seventh generation of video game consoles|Seventh generation]]
| releasedate = November 19, 2006<br />
+
| releasedate = {{collapsible list| title=November 19, 2006|
 
'''Wii'''
 
'''Wii'''
* NA: November 19, 2006
+
{{vgrelease|NA|November 19, 2006<ref name=NArelease>{{cite web|first1=Kathleen|last1=Sanders|first2=Matt|last2=Casamassina|url=http://ign.com/articles/2006/09/14/us-wii-price-launch-date-revealed|title=US Wii Price, Launch Date Revealed|publisher=IGN|date=September 13, 2006|accessdate=January 17, 2015}}</ref>|JP|December 2, 2006<ref name=JPrelease>{{cite web|last1=Sanders|first1=Kathleen|title=Japanese Wii Price, Release Date Revealed|url=http://ign.com/articles/2006/09/14/japanese-wii-price-release-date-revealed|website=IGN|accessdate=January 17, 2015|date=September 13, 2006}}</ref>|AUS|December 7, 2006<ref name=AUSrelease>{{cite web|author1=Nintendo Australia|title=Wii Australian Details|url=http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/pr/12068/wii-australian-details|website=Nintendo World Report|accessdate=January 17, 2015|date=September 15, 2006}}</ref>|EU|December 8, 2006<ref name=EUrelease>{{cite web|author1=Nintendo of Europe|title=Europe Gets Wii Last|url=http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/pr/12069/europe-gets-wii-last|website=Nintendo World Report|accessdate=January 17, 2015|date=September 15, 2006}}</ref>}}
* JP: December 2, 2006
 
* AUS: December 7, 2006
 
* EU: December 8, 2006
 
 
'''[[#Family Edition|Wii Family Edition]]'''
 
'''[[#Family Edition|Wii Family Edition]]'''
* NA: October 23, 2011
+
{{vgrelease|NA|October 23, 2011<ref>{{cite web|title=New black Wii bundle includes Mario CD |url=http://www.officialnintendomagazine.co.uk/31328/newsnew-black-wii-bundle-includes-mario-cd/ |work=[[Nintendo]] |accessdate=November 23, 2011 |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20111114130448/http://www.officialnintendomagazine.co.uk/31328/newsnew-black-wii-bundle-includes-mario-cd/ |archivedate=November 14, 2011 |df= }}</ref>|EU|November 4, 2011<ref>{{cite web|title=Nintendo launches Wii Family Edition on 4th November and Wii Fit Plus bundle on 2nd December|url=https://www.nintendo.co.uk/NOE/en_GB/news/2011/45337.html|work=[[Nintendo]]|accessdate=November 23, 2011}}</ref>|AUS|November 11, 2011}}
* EU: November 4, 2011
 
* AUS: November 11, 2011
 
 
'''[[#Wii Mini|Wii Mini]]'''
 
'''[[#Wii Mini|Wii Mini]]'''
* CAN: December 7, 2012
+
{{vgrelease|CAN|December 7, 2012<ref name="NinWiiMini">{{cite web|url=https://www.nintendo.com/whatsnew/detail/ONIEEqvK1pbPyTbW2lWO6QnPUiqqvuuI |title=Nintendo introduces Wii Mini that's all about games|publisher=Nintendo of Canada|date=November 22, 2012|accessdate=November 27, 2012}}</ref>|EU|March 22, 2013<ref name="web.archive.org">{{Cite web|url=http://web.archive.org/web/20150907235732/http://www.digitalspy.com.au/gaming/news/a461694/wii-mini-confirmed-for-europe-launching-next-month.html|title=Wii Mini confirmed for Europe, launching next month - Gaming News - Digital Spy|date=2015-09-07|access-date=2018-08-31}}</ref>|NA|November 17, 2013<ref name="Wii mini Official Site - Buy Now">{{Cite web|url=http://web.archive.org/web/20131107012351/https://www.nintendo.com/wiimini/buynow/|title=Wii mini Official Site - Buy Now|date=2013-11-07|access-date=2018-08-31}}</ref>}}
* EU: March 22, 2013
+
}}
* NA: November 17, 2013
+
| lifespan = 2006–2011 <small>(original model)</small><br />2011–2013 <small>(Wii Family Edition)</small><br />2012–2017 <small>(Wii Mini)</small>
| lifespan = 2006–2013 <small>(original model)</small><br />2011–2013 <small>(Wii Family Edition)</small><br />2012–2017 <small>(Wii Mini)</small>
+
| price = {{ubl|[[United States dollar|US$]]249.99|[[Japanese yen|JP¥]]25,000|[[Pound sterling|£]]179.99|[[Australian dollar|AU$]]399.95}}<small>([[Wii launch#Release dates and pricing|details]])</small>
| price = [[United States dollar|US$]]249.99<br />[[Japanese yen|JP¥]]25,000<br />[[Pound sterling|£]]179.99<br />[[Australian dollar|AU$]]399.95<small>([[Wii launch#Release dates and pricing|details]])</small>
+
| discontinued = '''Wii (overall)'''{{vgrelease|JP|October 20, 2013<ref name=engadget-discontinue /><ref name=GSJapOnly>{{cite web|last=Makuch |first=Eddie |url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/wii-discontinuation-in-japan-won-t-affect-availability-in-united-states/1100-6415717/ |title=Wii discontinuation in Japan won't affect availability in United States |publisher=GameSpot |date=October 22, 2013 |accessdate=October 24, 2013}}</ref>|NA|2017|EU|2017|AUS|2017}}
| discontinued = '''Wii (overall)'''
+
'''Wii (original model)'''{{vgrelease|NA|October 2011|EU|November 2011|AUS|November 2011|JP|October 20, 2013}}
*JP: October 20, 2013
+
'''Wii Family Edition'''{{vgrelease|EU|October 20, 2013<ref name="ReferenceA">{{Cite web|url=http://web.archive.org/web/20131026130505/http://www.mcvuk.com/news/read/time-also-called-on-wii-in-europe/0123162|title=Time also called on Wii in Europe {{!}} Games industry news {{!}} MCV|date=2013-10-26|access-date=2018-08-31}}</ref>|NA|2013|AUS|2017}}
*NA: 2017
+
'''Wii Mini'''{{vgrelease|WW|2017}}
*EU: 2017
+
| unitssold = Worldwide: 101.63&nbsp;million <small>({{as of|2016|03|31|lc=y|df=US}})</small><!--<ref name="nintendosales"/>--><!-- SEE DISCUSSION PAGE ON SALES NUMBER --> <small>([[Wii#System Sales|details]])</small>
*AUS: 2017
 
'''Wii (original model)'''
 
*NA: October 2011
 
*EU: November 2011
 
*AUS: November 2011
 
*JP: October 20, 2013
 
'''Wii Family Edition'''
 
*EU: October 20, 2013
 
*NA: 2013
 
*AUS: 2017
 
'''Wii Mini'''
 
*WW: 2017
 
| unitssold = Worldwide: 101.63&nbsp;million <small>(2016-03-31)</small><!----><!-- SEE DISCUSSION PAGE ON SALES NUMBER --> <small>([[Wii#System Sales|details]])</small>
 
 
| unitsshipped =
 
| unitsshipped =
| media = Physical and digital
+
| media = {{collapsible list|titlestyle=font-weight:normal;background:transparent;text-align:left|title=Physical and digital|
 
* [[Wii Optical Disc]]
 
* [[Wii Optical Disc]]
 
* [[GameCube Game Disc]] <small>(first model only)</small>
 
* [[GameCube Game Disc]] <small>(first model only)</small>
 
* [[Digital distribution in video games|Digital distribution]] <small>([[Wii Shop Channel]])</small>
 
* [[Digital distribution in video games|Digital distribution]] <small>([[Wii Shop Channel]])</small>
 +
}}
 
| os = [[Wii system software]]
 
| os = [[Wii system software]]
| cpu = 729&nbsp;MHz [[IBM]] [[PowerPC]] "[[Broadway (microprocessor)|Broadway]]"
+
| cpu = 729&nbsp;MHz [[IBM]] [[PowerPC]] "[[Broadway (microprocessor)|Broadway]]"<ref name="Wii: The Total Story" />
 
| memory = 88&nbsp;[[Megabyte|MB]] (total), 24&nbsp;MB MoSys 1T-SRAM, 324&nbsp;MHz, 2.7&nbsp;GB/s bandwidth
 
| memory = 88&nbsp;[[Megabyte|MB]] (total), 24&nbsp;MB MoSys 1T-SRAM, 324&nbsp;MHz, 2.7&nbsp;GB/s bandwidth
 
| storage = 512&nbsp;MB Internal [[flash memory]]
 
| storage = 512&nbsp;MB Internal [[flash memory]]
 
| memory card = [[Secure Digital|SD]]/[[SDHC]] card<br />[[GameCube Memory Card]] <small>(first model only)</small>
 
| memory card = [[Secure Digital|SD]]/[[SDHC]] card<br />[[GameCube Memory Card]] <small>(first model only)</small>
| display = Video output formats
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| display = {{collapsible list| title=Video output formats|
 
* [[Composite video]] <small>([[480i]], [[576i]]&nbsp;(PAL))</small>
 
* [[Composite video]] <small>([[480i]], [[576i]]&nbsp;(PAL))</small>
 
* [[S-Video]] <small>(480i&nbsp;(NTSC consoles only))</small>
 
* [[S-Video]] <small>(480i&nbsp;(NTSC consoles only))</small>
 
* RGB&nbsp;[[SCART]] <small>(576i&nbsp;(PAL consoles only))</small>
 
* RGB&nbsp;[[SCART]] <small>(576i&nbsp;(PAL consoles only))</small>
* [[Component video]] ([[YPbPr]]) <small>(480i, 576i&nbsp;(PAL), [[480p]])</small>
+
* [[Component video]] ([[YPbPr|{{YPbPr}}]]) <small>(480i, 576i&nbsp;(PAL), [[480p]])</small>
| GPU = 243&nbsp;MHz [[ATI Technologies|ATI]] [[Hollywood (graphics chip)|"Hollywood"]]
+
}}
| controllers = [[Wii Remote]] ([[Wii Remote Plus|Plus]]), [[Wii Balance Board]], [[Nintendo GameCube controller]] <small>(first model only)</small>, [[Nintendo DS]]<!-- SEE DISCUSSION ON CLASSIC CONTROLLER -->
+
| GPU = 243&nbsp;MHz [[ATI Technologies|ATI]] [[Hollywood (graphics chip)|"Hollywood"]]<ref name="Wii: The Total Story" />
| connectivity = [[Wi-Fi]] [[IEEE 802.11]] [[IEEE 802.11b-1999|b]]/[[IEEE 802.11g-2003|g]]<br />[[Bluetooth]]<br />2 × [[Universal Serial Bus|USB 2.0]]<br />[[Local area network|LAN]] Adapter (via USB 2.0)
+
| controllers = [[Wii Remote]] ([[Wii Remote Plus|Plus]]), [[Wii Balance Board]], [[Nintendo GameCube controller]] <small>(first model only)</small>, [[Nintendo DS]]<ref name="connectivity returns"/><!-- SEE DISCUSSION ON CLASSIC CONTROLLER -->
| service = [[Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection]] <small>(closed May 20, 2014)</small>, [[WiiConnect24]] <small>(closed June 27, 2013)</small>, [[Wii Shop Channel]] <small>(closing January 30, 2019)</small><!-- As quoted by Iwata, "Using a design called WiiConnect24, the console automatically enters standby mode without the fan running, but still operating key functions." This does not at all say that the online service itself is WiiConnect24. -->
+
| connectivity = [[Wi-Fi]] [[IEEE 802.11]] [[IEEE 802.11b-1999|b]]/[[IEEE 802.11g-2003|g]]<br />[[Bluetooth]]<br />2 × [[Universal Serial Bus|USB 2.0]]<ref name=1upspec>{{cite web|url=http://www.1up.com/do/feature?cId=3154939|archive-url=http://arquivo.pt/wayback/20160522225319/http://www.1up.com/do/feature?cId=3154939|dead-url=yes|archive-date=May 22, 2016|title=Wii Get It Now: Technical Specs from 1UP.com|publisher=1up.com|accessdate=May 2, 2008|last=McDonough|first=Amy}}</ref><br />[[Local area network|LAN]] Adapter (via USB 2.0)<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/6155664.stm|title=Factfile: The Wii|date=2006-11-17|access-date=2018-09-03|language=en-GB}}</ref>
| topgame = ''[[Wii Sports]]'' <small>([[Pack-in game|pack-in]], except in Japan and South Korea)</small> 82.86&nbsp;million <small>(2018-09-30)</small><br /> ''[[Mario Kart Wii]]'', 37.14&nbsp;million <small>(2018-09-30)</small>
+
| service = [[Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection]] <small>(closed May 20, 2014)</small>,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nintendo.com/consumer/network/en_na/network_status.jsp|title=- Nintendo - Current Network Status| accessdate=December 5, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nintendo.com/whatsnew/detail/vyWpoM6CBIe6FjW8NIY7bvzOrgBURhzw|title=Nintendo|work=Nintendo.com | accessdate=December 5, 2014}}</ref> [[WiiConnect24]] <small>(closed June 27, 2013)</small>,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2013/04/nintendo_to_pull_the_plug_on_several_online_wii_channels|title=Nintendo to Pull the Plug on Several Online Wii Channels|author=Nintendo Life|work=Nintendo Life|accessdate=December 5, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://en-americas-support.nintendo.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/3512/p/604|title=Discontinuation of WiiConnect24 Services {{!}} Wii & Wii mini {{!}} Nintendo Support|website=en-americas-support.nintendo.com|language=en-US|access-date=2018-09-04}}</ref> [[Wii Shop Channel]] <small>(closing January 30, 2019)</small><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.polygon.com/2017/9/29/16386918/wii-shop-channel-closing-nintendo|title=Wii Shop Channel closing down in 2019|work=Polygon|access-date=2018-07-29}}</ref><!-- As quoted by Iwata, "Using a design called WiiConnect24, the console automatically enters standby mode without the fan running, but still operating key functions." This does not at all say that the online service itself is WiiConnect24. -->
| compatibility = [[Gamecube|GameCube]] <small>(first model only)</small> <!-- Hardware compatibility only. Do not list Virtual Console as "compatible". Actual compatibility is with physical media, not emulated software. -->
+
| topgame = ''[[Wii Sports]]'' <small>([[Pack-in game|pack-in]], except in Japan and South Korea)</small> 82.86&nbsp;million <small>({{as of|2018|09|30|lc=y|df=US}})</small><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/en/sales/software/wii.html|title=IR Information : Sales Data - Top Selling Software Sales Units - Wii Software|work=Nintendo Co., Ltd.}}</ref><br /> ''[[Mario Kart Wii]]'', 37.14&nbsp;million <small>({{as of|2018|09|30|lc=y|df=US}})</small><ref name=wiim15>{{cite web |url=https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/en/sales/software/wii.html |title=Top Selling Software Sales Units|date=September 30, 2018|publisher=Nintendo Co., Ltd. |accessdate=October 30, 2018}}</ref>
 +
| compatibility = [[GameCube]] <small>(first model only)</small> <!-- Hardware compatibility only. Do not list Virtual Console as "compatible". Actual compatibility is with physical media, not emulated software. -->
 
| predecessor = GameCube<!-- Stop linking this. It is already linked above. See [[WP:MOS]] for more info. -->
 
| predecessor = GameCube<!-- Stop linking this. It is already linked above. See [[WP:MOS]] for more info. -->
 
| successor = [[Wii U]]
 
| successor = [[Wii U]]
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Nintendo has released few technical details regarding the Wii system, but some key facts have leaked through the press. Although none of these reports has been officially confirmed, they generally indicate that the console is an extension (or advancement) of the [[Nintendo GameCube]] architecture. Specifically, the analyses report that the Wii is roughly 1.5 to 2&nbsp;times as powerful as its predecessor. Based on specifications, the Wii has been called the least powerful of the major home consoles of its generation.
 
Nintendo has released few technical details regarding the Wii system, but some key facts have leaked through the press. Although none of these reports has been officially confirmed, they generally indicate that the console is an extension (or advancement) of the [[Nintendo GameCube]] architecture. Specifically, the analyses report that the Wii is roughly 1.5 to 2&nbsp;times as powerful as its predecessor. Based on specifications, the Wii has been called the least powerful of the major home consoles of its generation.
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{{Col-begin}}
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 +
{{Col-2}}
  
 
'''Processors:'''
 
'''Processors:'''
* [[Central processing unit|CPU]]: [[PowerPC]]-based [[Broadway (microprocessor)|Broadway]] processor, made with a [[90 nanometer|90&nbsp;nm]] [[Silicon on insulator|SOI]] [[CMOS]] process, reportedly clocked at 729&nbsp;[[Hertz|MHz]]
+
* [[Central processing unit|CPU]]: [[PowerPC]]-based [[Broadway (microprocessor)|Broadway]] processor, made with a [[90 nanometer|90&nbsp;nm]] [[Silicon on insulator|SOI]] [[CMOS]] process, reportedly{{Ref|clock|†}} clocked at 729&nbsp;[[Hertz|MHz]]
* [[Graphics processing unit|GPU]]: [[ATI Technologies|ATI]] [[Hollywood (graphics chip)|Hollywood GPU]] made with a 90&nbsp;nm CMOS process, reportedly clocked at 243&nbsp;[[Hertz|MHz]]
+
* [[Graphics processing unit|GPU]]: [[ATI Technologies|ATI]] [[Hollywood (graphics chip)|Hollywood GPU]] made with a 90&nbsp;nm CMOS process, reportedly{{Ref|clock|†}} clocked at 243&nbsp;[[Hertz|MHz]]
  
 
<small>{{note|clock|†}} None of the [[clock rate]]s have been confirmed by [[Nintendo]], [[IBM]] or [[ATI Technologies|ATI]].</small>
 
<small>{{note|clock|†}} None of the [[clock rate]]s have been confirmed by [[Nintendo]], [[IBM]] or [[ATI Technologies|ATI]].</small>
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* [[British Board of Film Classification|BBFC]], [[Computer Entertainment Rating Organization|CERO]], [[Entertainment Software Rating Board|ESRB]], [[Australian Classification Board|ACB]], [[Office of Film and Literature Classification (New Zealand)|OFLC (NZ)]], [[Pan European Game Information|PEGI]], [[Unterhaltungssoftware Selbstkontrolle|USK]]
 
* [[British Board of Film Classification|BBFC]], [[Computer Entertainment Rating Organization|CERO]], [[Entertainment Software Rating Board|ESRB]], [[Australian Classification Board|ACB]], [[Office of Film and Literature Classification (New Zealand)|OFLC (NZ)]], [[Pan European Game Information|PEGI]], [[Unterhaltungssoftware Selbstkontrolle|USK]]
  
 +
{{Col-2}}
 
[[File:broadwaycpu.JPG|thumb|IBM Wii [[Broadway (microprocessor)|Broadway]] CPU|alt=Square computer chip]]
 
[[File:broadwaycpu.JPG|thumb|IBM Wii [[Broadway (microprocessor)|Broadway]] CPU|alt=Square computer chip]]
 
[[File:Hollywood gpu.png|thumb|ATI Wii [[Hollywood (graphics chip)|Hollywood]] GPU|alt=Square computer chip]]
 
[[File:Hollywood gpu.png|thumb|ATI Wii [[Hollywood (graphics chip)|Hollywood]] GPU|alt=Square computer chip]]
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* 1.3&nbsp;W in standby
 
* 1.3&nbsp;W in standby
  
{{clear}}
+
{{Col-end}}{{Clear}}
  
 
==={{anchor|Technical issues}}Technical problems===
 
==={{anchor|Technical issues}}Technical problems===
The first Wii system software update (via WiiConnect24) caused a small number of launch units to become [[Brick (electronics)|completely unusable]]. This forced users to either send their units to [[Nintendo]] for repairs (if they wished to retain their saved data) or exchange them for free replacements.
+
The first Wii system software update (via WiiConnect24) caused a small number of launch units to become [[Brick (electronics)|completely unusable]]. This forced users to either send their units to [[Nintendo]] for repairs (if they wished to retain their saved data) or exchange them for free replacements.<ref name="Wii Firmware down">{{cite web|url= http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=149572|archiveurl= https://web.archive.org/web/20080616142826/http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=149572|archivedate= June 16, 2008|title=Wii Connect 24 Kills Wiis|publisher=[[ComputerAndVideoGames.com]]| date=November 21, 2006|first=Mike|last=Jackson|accessdate=September 25, 2008}}</ref>
  
With the release of dual-layer Wii Optical Discs, Nintendo of America stated that some Wii systems may have difficulty reading the high-density software (due to a contaminated laser lens). Nintendo offers retail lens-cleaning kits and free console repairs for owners who experience this issue.
+
With the release of dual-layer Wii Optical Discs, Nintendo of America stated that some Wii systems may have difficulty reading the high-density software (due to a contaminated laser lens). Nintendo offers retail lens-cleaning kits and free console repairs for owners who experience this issue.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nintendo.com/consumer/repair/repair_form_us_ssbb.jsp|title=Repair Form for U.S. Residents|accessdate =March 11, 2008|publisher=[[Nintendo]]}}</ref><ref name="BRAWLERROS">{{cite web|url= http://gonintendo.com/?p=40081|title=Brawl disc read errors return, but this time it's Mario Kart|publisher=GoNintendo|date= April 11, 2008|accessdate=September 25, 2008}}</ref>
  
The Wii Remote can lose track of the Wii system it has been set to, requiring that it be reset and resynchronized. Nintendo's support website provides instructions for this process and troubleshooting related issues.
+
The Wii Remote can lose track of the Wii system it has been set to, requiring that it be reset and resynchronized. Nintendo's support website provides instructions for this process and troubleshooting related issues.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://support.nintendo.com/|title=Nintendo support website|publisher=Nintendo}}</ref>
  
 
==Features==
 
==Features==
 
+
{{See also|Wii system software}}
 
The console has a number of internal features made available from its hardware and [[firmware]] components. The hardware allows for extendability (via expansion ports), while the firmware (and some software) can receive periodic updates via the [[WiiConnect24]] service.<!--
 
The console has a number of internal features made available from its hardware and [[firmware]] components. The hardware allows for extendability (via expansion ports), while the firmware (and some software) can receive periodic updates via the [[WiiConnect24]] service.<!--
The latest firmware version for the Wii system is 2.2U. In order to use Channels requiring Internet access, a firmware update is required. -->
+
The latest firmware version for the Wii system is 2.2U. In order to use Channels requiring Internet access, a firmware update is required.<ref name="IGN Firmware">{{cite web|url=http://wii.ign.com/articles/745/745341p1.html|title=IGN: Wii Channels to Require Upgrade|accessdate=October 12, 2006|date=October 10, 2006}}</ref> -->
  
 
===Wii Menu===
 
===Wii Menu===
 
[[File:Wiimen.png|thumb|[[Wii Menu]]|alt=Screenshot of Wii Menu]]
 
[[File:Wiimen.png|thumb|[[Wii Menu]]|alt=Screenshot of Wii Menu]]
 +
{{Main|Wii Menu}}
  
The Wii Menu interface is designed to emulate [[television channel]]s. Separate channels are graphically displayed in a grid, and are navigated using the pointer capability of the [[Wii Remote]]. Except for the Disc Channel, it is possible to change the arrangement by holding down the A and B buttons to "grab" channels and move them around. There are six primary channels: the Disc Channel, Mii Channel, Photo Channel, Wii Shop Channel, Forecast Channel and News Channel. The latter two were initially unavailable at launch, but were later activated in updates. The Wii + Internet Video Channel was pre-installed on all Wii consoles starting in October 2008. Additional channels are available for download from the [[Wii Shop Channel]] through [[WiiWare]], and appear with each [[Virtual Console]] title; these include the [[Everybody Votes Channel]], [[Internet Channel]], [[Check Mii Out Channel]] and the [[Nintendo Channel]].
+
The Wii Menu interface is designed to emulate [[television channel]]s. Separate channels are graphically displayed in a grid, and are navigated using the pointer capability of the [[Wii Remote]]. Except for the Disc Channel, it is possible to change the arrangement by holding down the A and B buttons to "grab" channels and move them around. There are six primary channels: the Disc Channel, Mii Channel, Photo Channel, Wii Shop Channel, Forecast Channel and News Channel. The latter two were initially unavailable at launch, but were later activated in updates. The Wii + Internet Video Channel was pre-installed on all Wii consoles starting in October 2008.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://web.archive.org/web/20090225181747/https://www.nintendo.com/consumer/systems/wii/en_na/channelsWiiInternetVideo.jsp|title={{!}} Nintendo - Customer Service {{!}} Wii - Wii + Internet Channel Video|date=2009-02-25|access-date=2018-12-01}}</ref> Additional channels are available for download from the [[Wii Shop Channel]] through [[WiiWare]], and appear with each [[Virtual Console]] title; these include the [[Everybody Votes Channel]], [[Internet Channel]], [[Check Mii Out Channel]] and the [[Nintendo Channel]].
  
 
===Backward compatibility===
 
===Backward compatibility===
 
<!-- - Wii Download Games Should not Be Mixed With Launch Titles - -->
 
<!-- - Wii Download Games Should not Be Mixed With Launch Titles - -->
 
[[File:Wii-gamecube-compatibility.jpg|thumb|The first model of the Wii has [[Nintendo GameCube]] Memory Card and controller slots to provide backward compatibility.|alt=Wii console with black GameCube controller]]
 
[[File:Wii-gamecube-compatibility.jpg|thumb|The first model of the Wii has [[Nintendo GameCube]] Memory Card and controller slots to provide backward compatibility.|alt=Wii console with black GameCube controller]]
Wii consoles with the original design are [[backward compatibility|backward-compatible]] with all [[Nintendo GameCube]] software, Nintendo GameCube Memory Cards and controllers. Software compatibility is achieved by the slot-loading drive's ability to accept [[Nintendo optical disc|Nintendo GameCube Game Discs]]. However, redesigned "Family Edition" Wiis and the Wii Mini are not backward-compatible.
+
Wii consoles with the original design are [[backward compatibility|backward-compatible]] with all [[Nintendo GameCube]] software, Nintendo GameCube Memory Cards and controllers. Software compatibility is achieved by the slot-loading drive's ability to accept [[Nintendo optical disc|Nintendo GameCube Game Discs]]. However, redesigned "Family Edition" Wiis and the Wii Mini are not backward-compatible.<ref name="Wii2.0" /><ref name="EurogamerReview" />
  
A Wii console running a GameCube disc is restricted to GameCube functionality, and a GameCube controller is required to play GameCube titles. A Nintendo GameCube Memory Card is also necessary to save game progress and content, since the Wii internal flash memory will not save GameCube games. Also, backward compatibility is limited in some areas. For example, online and LAN-enabled features for Nintendo GameCube titles are unavailable on the Wii, since the console lacks serial ports for the [[Nintendo GameCube Broadband Adapter and Modem Adapter]].
+
A Wii console running a GameCube disc is restricted to GameCube functionality, and a GameCube controller is required to play GameCube titles. A Nintendo GameCube Memory Card is also necessary to save game progress and content, since the Wii internal flash memory will not save GameCube games.<ref name=CNETAcc>{{cite web|url=http://news.cnet.com/8301-17938_105-9663541-1.html|title=Must-have Nintendo Wii accessories|first=John P.|last=Falcone|date=November 16, 2006|accessdate=September 13, 2012|publisher=CNET}}</ref> Also, backward compatibility is limited in some areas. For example, online and LAN-enabled features for Nintendo GameCube titles are unavailable on the Wii, since the console lacks serial ports for the [[Nintendo GameCube Broadband Adapter and Modem Adapter]].<ref name=CNETFAQ>{{cite web|url=http://reviews.cnet.com/4520-10166_7-6676348-1.html|title=Which of my older video games will work on the new consoles?|date=December 12, 2006|first=John|last=Falcone|publisher=CNET|accessdate=September 13, 2012}}</ref>
  
 
===Nintendo DS connectivity===
 
===Nintendo DS connectivity===
The Wii system supports wireless connectivity with the [[Nintendo DS]] without any additional accessories. This connectivity allows the player to use the Nintendo DS microphone and [[touchscreen]] as inputs for Wii games. The first game utilizing Nintendo DS-Wii connectivity is ''[[Pokémon Battle Revolution]]''. Players with either the [[Pokémon Diamond and Pearl|''Pokémon Diamond'' or ''Pearl'']] Nintendo DS games are able to play battles using the Nintendo DS as a controller. ''[[Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: Echoes of Time]]'', released on both Nintendo DS and Wii, features connectivity in which both games can advance simultaneously. Nintendo later released the [[Nintendo Channel]], which allows Wii owners to download [[game demo]]s or additional data to their Nintendo DS in a process similar to that of a [[DS Download Station]]. The console is also able to expand Nintendo DS games.
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The Wii system supports wireless connectivity with the [[Nintendo DS]] without any additional accessories. This connectivity allows the player to use the Nintendo DS microphone and [[touchscreen]] as inputs for Wii games. The first game utilizing Nintendo DS-Wii connectivity is ''[[Pokémon Battle Revolution]]''. Players with either the [[Pokémon Diamond and Pearl|''Pokémon Diamond'' or ''Pearl'']] Nintendo DS games are able to play battles using the Nintendo DS as a controller.<ref name="connectivity returns">{{cite web|last=Gantayat|first=Anoop|date=June 7, 2006|url=http://wii.ign.com/articles/711/711657p1.html|title=Connectivity Returns|publisher=IGN|accessdate=June 7, 2006|archive-url=https://www.webcitation.org/69fwCYFLF?url=http://wii.ign.com/articles/711/711657p1.html#|archive-date=August 4, 2012|dead-url=yes|df=mdy-all}}</ref> ''[[Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: Echoes of Time]]'', released on both Nintendo DS and Wii, features connectivity in which both games can advance simultaneously. Nintendo later released the [[Nintendo Channel]], which allows Wii owners to download [[game demo]]s or additional data to their Nintendo DS in a process similar to that of a [[DS Download Station]].<ref name="Iwata Tech-On 3">{{cite web|first=Naoki|last=Asami|author2=Hiroki Yomogita |date=May 25, 2006|url=http://techon.nikkeibp.co.jp/english/NEWS_EN/20060525/117498/?P=3|title=Regaining what we have lost: Nintendo CEO Iwata's Ambitions for the "Wii"|work=Tech-On!|page=3|publisher=Nikkei Business Publications|accessdate=June 9, 2006}}</ref> The console is also able to expand Nintendo DS games.<ref name="connectivity returns" />
  
 
===Online connectivity===
 
===Online connectivity===
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{{Main|Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection|WiiConnect24|Internet Channel|List of Wii Wi-Fi Connection games|Wii Menu#Downloadable_channels}}
  
The Wii console connects to the Internet through its built-in [[IEEE 802.11#802.11b|802.11b]]/[[IEEE 802.11#802.11g|g]] Wi-Fi or through a USB-to-Ethernet adapter; either method allows players to access the [[Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection]] service. The service has several features for the console, including [[Virtual Console]], [[WiiConnect24]], the [[Internet Channel]], the [[Forecast Channel]], the [[Everybody Votes Channel]], the [[News Channel (Wii)|News Channel]] and the [[Mii|Check Mii Out Channel]]. The Wii can also communicate (and connect) with other Wii systems through a self-generated wireless [[local area network|LAN]], enabling local wireless multi-playing on different television sets. ''[[Battalion Wars 2]]'' first demonstrated this feature for non-split screen multi-playing between two (or more) televisions.
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The Wii console connects to the Internet through its built-in [[IEEE 802.11#802.11b|802.11b]]/[[IEEE 802.11#802.11g|g]] Wi-Fi or through a USB-to-Ethernet adapter; either method allows players to access the [[Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection]] service.<ref name="Wii: The Total Story" /> The service has several features for the console, including [[Virtual Console]], [[WiiConnect24]], the [[Internet Channel]], the [[Forecast Channel]], the [[Everybody Votes Channel]], the [[News Channel (Wii)|News Channel]] and the [[Mii|Check Mii Out Channel]]. The Wii can also communicate (and connect) with other Wii systems through a self-generated wireless [[local area network|LAN]], enabling local wireless multi-playing on different television sets. ''[[Battalion Wars 2]]'' first demonstrated this feature for non-split screen multi-playing between two (or more) televisions.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://wii.ign.com/articles/727/727651p1.html|title=Battalion Wars 2 Hands On|publisher=IGN|first=Mario|last=Kablau|date=August 23, 2006|accessdate=January 25, 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060902202730/http://wii.ign.com/articles/727/727651p1.html#|archive-date=September 2, 2006|dead-url=yes|df=mdy-all}}</ref>
  
 
==== Media Support ====
 
==== Media Support ====
On April 9, 2008, the BBC announced that its online [[BBC iPlayer]] would be available on the Wii via the [[Internet Channel]] browser; however, some users experienced difficulty with the service. On November 18, 2009, [[BBC iPlayer]] on the Wii was launched as the BBC iPlayer Channel, a free downloadable channel from the [[Wii Shop Channel]]; however, the service was discontinued in early 2017.
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On April 9, 2008, the BBC announced that its online [[BBC iPlayer]] would be available on the Wii via the [[Internet Channel]] browser; however, some users experienced difficulty with the service. On November 18, 2009, [[BBC iPlayer]] on the Wii was launched as the BBC iPlayer Channel,<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/8357777.stm|title=BBC iPlayer launches Wii channel|publisher=BBC|accessdate=December 26, 2009 | date=November 13, 2009}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/bbcinternet/2009/11/the_new_iplayer_on_the_nintend.html|title=The new iPlayer on the Nintendo Wii|publisher=BBC|accessdate=December 26, 2009}}</ref> a free downloadable channel from the [[Wii Shop Channel]];<ref>{{cite web|url=http://iplayerhelp.external.bbc.co.uk/help/playing_tv_progs/nintendo_Wii|title=Can I access BBC iPlayer on my Nintendo Wii game system?|publisher=BBC|accessdate=September 27, 2010}}</ref> however, the service was discontinued in early 2017.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2016/09/bbc_iplayer_app_to_end_service_on_wii_u_in_early_2017|title=BBC iPlayer App to End Service on Wii U in Early 2017|last=Whitehead|first=Thomas|work=Nintendo Life|date=September 30, 2016|access-date=August 8, 2018}}</ref>
  
[[Netflix]] was released as a downloadable channel for the Wii on October 18, 2010 in Canada and the United States. A survey conducted by [[Nielsen Holdings|Nielson]] revealed that 25% of Netflix subscribers used the Netflix Channel on the Wii as of July 2011.
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[[Netflix]] was released as a downloadable channel for the Wii on October 18, 2010 in Canada and the United States.<ref name="Netflix-Nodisc">{{cite web|author= Devindra Hardawar |url=https://venturebeat.com/2010/10/18/netflix-streaming-video-now-disc-free-on-the-nintendo-wii/ |title=Netflix streaming video now disc-free on the Nintendo Wii |publisher=VentureBeat |date=October 18, 2010 |accessdate=November 11, 2010}}</ref> A survey conducted by [[Nielsen Holdings|Nielson]] revealed that 25% of Netflix subscribers used the Netflix Channel on the Wii as of July 2011.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110729024009/http://blog.nielsen.com/nielsenwire/online_mobile/what-netflix-and-hulu-users-are-watching-and-how/|title=What Netflix and Hulu Users are Watching… and How {{!}} Nielsen Wire|date=2011-07-29|access-date=2018-08-07}}</ref>
  
[[Hulu]] announced in October 2011 that they would be releasing their [[streaming service]], Hulu Plus, on the Wii and the [[Nintendo 3DS]]. Hulu Plus was released on February 16, 2012 as a downloadable channel for the Wii.
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[[Hulu]] announced in October 2011 that they would be releasing their [[streaming service]], Hulu Plus, on the Wii and the [[Nintendo 3DS]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.engadget.com/2011/10/21/hulu-plus-coming-to-3ds-and-wii-handheld-getting-3d-video-captu/|title=Hulu Plus coming to 3DS and Wii, handheld getting 3D video capture|work=Engadget|access-date=2018-08-07|language=en-US}}</ref> Hulu Plus was released on February 16, 2012 as a downloadable channel for the Wii.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theverge.com/2012/2/16/2802355/hulu-plus-wii-available|title=Hulu Plus for Wii available for download now|work=The Verge|access-date=2018-08-07}}</ref>
  
[[YouTube]] was released as a downloadable channel for the Wii on December 15, 2012 in the United States. The YouTube Channel for the Wii was discontinued on June 28, 2017 as part of YouTube's plan to phase out availability on older devices.
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[[YouTube]] was released as a downloadable channel for the Wii on December 15, 2012 in the United States.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://web.archive.org/web/20121120040550/http://wii.mmgn.com/News/youtube-finally-makes-it-to-the-wii-1340|title=YouTube finally makes it to the Wii - Wii News {{!}} MMGN Australia|date=2012-11-20|access-date=2018-08-07}}</ref> The YouTube Channel for the Wii was discontinued on June 28, 2017 as part of YouTube's plan to phase out availability on older devices.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://en-americas-support.nintendo.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/26400/p/604|title=YouTube for Wii Service Has Ended {{!}} Wii & Wii mini {{!}} Nintendo Support|website=en-americas-support.nintendo.com|language=en-US|access-date=2018-09-04}}</ref>
  
[[Prime Video]], [[Amazon (company)|Amazon]]'s streaming service, was released on January 14, 2013 as a downloadable channel for the Wii.
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[[Prime Video]], [[Amazon (company)|Amazon]]'s streaming service, was released on January 14, 2013 as a downloadable channel for the Wii.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.cnet.com/how-to/how-to-set-up-amazon-instant-video-on-the-nintendo-wii/|title=How to set up Amazon Instant Video on the Nintendo Wii|date=2013-01-15|work=CNET|access-date=2018-08-07|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=176060&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1774342&highlight=|title=Amazon - Press Room - Press Release|website=phx.corporate-ir.net|access-date=2018-08-07}}</ref>
  
[[Crunchyroll]], an [[anime]] streaming service, was released on October 15, 2015 as a downloadable channel for the Wii.
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[[Crunchyroll]], an [[anime]] streaming service, was released on October 15, 2015 as a downloadable channel for the Wii.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.crunchyroll.com/anime-news/2015/10/15-1/crunchyroll-app-now-available-on-nintendo-wii|title=Crunchyroll App Now Available on Nintendo Wii|work=Crunchyroll|access-date=2018-08-07|language=en}}</ref>
  
In 2018, Netflix announced that Nintendo would shut down support for video streaming services on the Wii on January 30, 2019, including Netflix.
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In 2018, Netflix announced that Nintendo would shut down support for video streaming services on the Wii on January 30, 2019, including Netflix.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181109093106/https://devices.netflix.com/en/game-consoles/wii/|title=Wii|date=2018-11-09|access-date=2018-11-10}}</ref>
  
 
===Parental controls===
 
===Parental controls===
The console features [[parental controls]], which can be used to prohibit younger users from playing games with content unsuitable for their age level. When one attempts to play a Wii or [[Virtual Console]] game, it reads the content rating encoded in the game data; if this rating is greater than the system's set age level, the game will not load without a password. Parental controls may also restrict Internet access, which blocks the [[Internet Channel]] and system-update features. Since the console is restricted to [[Nintendo GameCube]] functionality when playing Nintendo GameCube Game Discs, GameCube software is unaffected by Wii parental-control settings.
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The console features [[parental controls]], which can be used to prohibit younger users from playing games with content unsuitable for their age level. When one attempts to play a Wii or [[Virtual Console]] game, it reads the content rating encoded in the game data; if this rating is greater than the system's set age level, the game will not load without a password. Parental controls may also restrict Internet access, which blocks the [[Internet Channel]] and system-update features. Since the console is restricted to [[Nintendo GameCube]] functionality when playing Nintendo GameCube Game Discs, GameCube software is unaffected by Wii parental-control settings.<ref name=CNETParent>{{cite web|url=http://news.cnet.com/8301-17938_105-9880634-1.html|title=Super-Easy Game Play - Nintendo Wii Reviewi|publisher=PC Magazine|first=Will|last=Greenwald|date=February 29, 2008|accessdate=September 13, 2012}}</ref>
 
 
European units primarily use the [[Pan European Game Information|PEGI]] rating system, while North American units use the [[Entertainment Software Rating Board|ESRB]] rating system. The Wii supports the rating systems of many countries, including [[Computer Entertainment Rating Organization|CERO]] in Japan, the [[Unterhaltungssoftware Selbstkontrolle|USK]] in Germany, the [[Pan European Game Information|PEGI]] and [[British Board of Film Classification|BBFC]] in the United Kingdom, the [[Australian Classification Board|ACB]] in Australia and the [[Office of Film and Literature Classification (New Zealand)|OFLC]] in New Zealand. Homebrew developers have reverse-engineered the function which Nintendo uses to recover lost parental-control passwords, creating a simple script to obtain parental-control reset codes.
 
  
[[Category:Nintendo consoles]]
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European units primarily use the [[Pan European Game Information|PEGI]] rating system,<ref name="par_pegi">{{cite news|url= http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=10948|title=Revolution To Feature Parental Controls|publisher=[[Nintendo World Report]]|date=November 16, 2005 |accessdate=September 25, 2008}}</ref> while North American units use the [[Entertainment Software Rating Board|ESRB]] rating system.<ref name="par_esrb">{{cite press release|url=https://www.nintendo.com/newsarticle?articleid=z5UnNGZpQKWULzG0z8R501PA5IHoNPr2|title=Nintendo Announces Play Control System For Next Hardware|publisher= Nintendo|date=November 16, 2005|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20070213012428/http://www.nintendo.com/newsarticle?articleid=z5UnNGZpQKWULzG0z8R501PA5IHoNPr2|archivedate=February 13, 2007}}</ref> The Wii supports the rating systems of many countries, including [[Computer Entertainment Rating Organization|CERO]] in Japan, the [[Unterhaltungssoftware Selbstkontrolle|USK]] in Germany, the [[Pan European Game Information|PEGI]] and [[British Board of Film Classification|BBFC]] in the United Kingdom, the [[Australian Classification Board|ACB]] in Australia and the [[Office of Film and Literature Classification (New Zealand)|OFLC]] in New Zealand. Homebrew developers have reverse-engineered the function which Nintendo uses to recover lost parental-control passwords, creating a simple script to obtain parental-control reset codes.<ref>{{cite web|author=marcan |url=http://hackmii.com/2008/05/parental-controls/ |title=Parental Controls |publisher=HackmMii.com |date=May 15, 2008 |accessdate=July 3, 2009}}</ref>

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