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How to Use the Wii U GamePad to Display Wii Mode

Wii U

In this article, you'll learn how to use the Wii U GamePad to display Wii Mode.

Note
  • If you are booting the console into Wii Mode, use of the Wii U GamePad will be turned on by default; however, the Wii U GamePad can be turned off.
  • The Wii U GamePad touch screen cannot be used to control games or menus in Wii Mode. It is only used to display what would normally be displayed on the TV.
  • The Wii Remote should be used between 1 and 3 feet from the Wii U GamePad.
  • 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.
  • Pressing the POWER button on the Wii U GamePad will not turn off the Wii U Console while in Wii Mode.

Complete these steps

  1. Ensure your TV is turned on and that you have a paired, working Wii Remote ready.
  2. Launch Wii Mode and use a Wii Remote to select TV & GamePad.
    • You cannot change this option once Wii Mode has been launched. If you make a mistake, or wish to choose a different option, you must exit and launch Wii Mode again.
  3. When Wii Mode launches, the image shown on the TV will be mirrored on the Wii U GamePad.
    • If you want to use the TV to view other content, or turn the TV off, you may do so once the Wii Menu has loaded.
  4. Point the Wii Remote at the Wii U GamePad. You should see the hand icon and be able to control the Wii Menu and Games as you would if you were using a television.
    • The Wii U GamePad has a Sensor Bar built along its top. This allows the use of a Wii Remote with the Wii U GamePad screen.
    • If there is a Sensor Bar connected to the Wii U, it will also be turned on. If there are any problems with an erratic hand icon, or it is not functioning as expected, please either move the location of the Wii U GamePad, or unplug the Sensor Bar connected to the Wii U Console while using Wii Mode.
      • Be sure to plug the Sensor Bar back in before trying to launch Wii Mode again if you disconnect it.

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