Wii U firmware 5.0.0 with quick start menu goes live

The long awaited ‘summer’ update for the Wii U  is here and clocking the systems firmware up to version 5.0.0. This firmware brings the time saving quick start menu which skips all the fluff and gets you right into a game before the console is even booted up.

Theres also new notification options and alerts that appear on the GamePad including a new ringtone. Theses alerts can come through and be checked as we’ll with the console also powered off. Seems like the GamePad itself will be getting a firmware update as well.

The new firmware is available to download right now, let us know how it works for you in the comments below.

From Nintendo:

Version 5.0.0 U, available via an Internet connection, includes the following improvements:

New Features:

• A Quick Start Menu is now displayed when users press the GamePad POWER Button or HOME Button to power on the Wii U
• Users can start recently played or newly installed software directly from the Quick Start Menu *1
• Wii U GamePad Alerts (special notifications from Nintendo) can be displayed on the GamePad when the Wii U is powered down
• Users will be notified with an audio ringtone when a new GamePad Alert is displayed
• GamePad Alerts that have been received can also be viewed through the Quick Start Menu*2

Changes to Standby Functions:

• System updates will now automatically install after download when the Wii U is in Standby

Changes to the Wii U Menu:

• The User Settings screen now displays when users select their User Mii from the Wii U Menu
• The design and layout of the Users Settings screen has been updated
• This includes the ability to switch the active user from the User Settings screen

Changes to System Settings:

• Quick Start Menu options have been added to Power Settings
• Wii U GamePad Alert options are located within the Quick Start Menu options

Changes to the HOME Menu

• A Notification icon is now available on the HOME Menu, allowing users to launch the Notifications feature from the HOME Menu

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. Quick Start Menu is only displayed when the Wii U GamePad POWER or HOME Buttons are pressed. Other controllers, such as the Wii Remote Plus and Wii U Pro Controller, will continue to power on the Wii U
2. Wii U GamePad Alerts are different from the notifications received via the Wii U Notifications feature. Wii U GamePad Alerts settings can be changed via Power Settings located in System Settings.

[/quote]