How to Switch Between Wii and Wii U Modes

Wii U

In this article, you'll learn how to switch between the Wii U and Wii menu.

To return to the Wii U Menu from Wii Mode, from the Wii Mode HOME Menu, select Wii U Menu and then Start.
The ability to boot the Wii U directly into the Wii Menu was added with the system update released April 25th, 2013.

Complete these steps

Sync a Wii Remote with the Wii U console.
- A synced Wii Remote is required to launch Wii mode.
Launch Wii Mode.
- If you have entered a Wii disc into your Wii U, launch the software as normal.
- If you are not launching software from a disc, scroll to the Wii Menu icon located on the Wii U Menu and press A.
Use the Wii Remote to select Wii Menu by pointing the Wii Remote at the screen, hovering the hand icon over Wii Menu, and pressing the A Button.
If the latest system update has been applied, you can select either TV Only or TV & GamePad depending on which device you would like to use as a display.
- You must use the Wii Remote that is set as player one to perform this action.
- If the hand icon does not appear, troubleshoot the cursor.
- If you have not yet sync'd a Wii Remote with the Wii U Console, you will be prompted to sync one. Follow the on-screen instructions.