Using the Wii U GamePad in Wii Mode FAQ
General information
- How do I use the Wii U GamePad in Wii Mode?
- If you boot into Wii Mode, will the GamePad be activated?
- Can I control games and/or the Wii Menu using the Wii U GamePad in Wii Mode?
- Can I turn the TV off when using the Wii U GamePad in Wii Mode?
- Can I turn the Wii U GamePad off while in Wii Mode?
- Will pressing down the POWER Button turn the Wii U console off?
- Does the Wii U GamePad have a Sensor Bar?
- What is the recommended operating distance when using the Wii U GamePad with a Wii Remote?
- How should the Wii U GamePad be placed when using it with a Wii Remote?
General information
How do I use the Wii U GamePad in Wii Mode?
Select TV & GamePad when launching Wii Mode. The image shown on the TV will be mirrored on the Wii U GamePad.
If you boot into Wii Mode, will the GamePad be activated?
Yes. The Wii U GamePad is turned on by default when booting directly into Wii Mode.
Can I control games and/or the Wii Menu using the Wii U GamePad in Wii Mode?
No. The Wii U GamePad is only used as a display while in Wii Mode. You cannot use the buttons or screen to control anything.
Can I turn the TV off when using the Wii U GamePad in Wii Mode?
Yes. Once the Wii Menu is displayed, you can turn the TV off or change the channel.
Can I turn the Wii U GamePad off while in Wii Mode?
Yes. Pressing and holding down the POWER button on the Wii U GamePad will turn the Wii U GamePad off.
Will pressing down the POWER button turn the Wii U Console off?
No. In Wii Mode, the Wii U GamePad will not power off the Wii U Console. You must either exit Wii Mode, or use the POWER button on the Wii U Console to power it off.
Does the Wii U GamePad have a Sensor Bar?
Yes. When using the Wii U GamePad in Wii Mode, the Sensor Bar, located at the top of the Wii U GamePad, is turned on.
- If the icon on the Wii Menu is erratic, disappears and reappears, or is not functioning as expected, it may indicate that the Sensor Bar on your TV Is conflicting with the Sensor Bar on the Wii U Gamepad. Moving the Wii U GamePad, or disconnecting the Sensor Bar connected to the TV, may resolve this issue.
What is the recommended operating distance when using the Wii U GamePad with a Wii Remote?
Between one and three feet.
How should the Wii U GamePad be placed when using it with a Wii Remote?
Because the Wii U GamePad's Sensor Bar is used with the Wii Remote, the Wii U GamePad needs to be facing the Wii Remote. The Wii Remote may not work if it is pointed down 45 degrees or more, such as when the Wii U GamePad is placed horizontally on a lap, table, or other flat surface.
