The new Wii U console introduces the Wii U GamePad, a controller with a 6.2-inch touch screen that redefines how people interact with their games, their entertainment and one another.
Launches: 30th November 2012 (Australian/New Zealand Launch date)
Size: Approximately 1.8 inches high, 10.6 inches deep and 6.75 inches long.
Weight: Approximately 3.5 pounds (1.6 kg).
Appearance: The new console features a compact design that will make it a natural addition to any home entertainment setup.
Wii U GamePad: The Wii U GamePad controller removes the traditional barriers between games, players and the TV by creating a second window into the video game world. It also offers a new way for viewers to engage with their favorite entertainment. The GamePad incorporates a 6.2-inch, 16:9 aspect ratio LCD touch screen, as well as traditional button controls and two analog sticks. Inputs include a +Control Pad, L/R sticks, L/R stick buttons, A/B/X/Y buttons, L/R buttons, ZL/ZR buttons, Power button, HOME button, -/SELECT button, +/START button, and TV CONTROL button. The GamePad also includes motion control (powered by an accelerometer, gyroscope and geomagnetic sensor), a front-facing camera, a microphone, stereo speakers, rumble features, a sensor bar, an included stylus and support for Near Field Communication (NFC) functionality. It is powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery and weighs approximately 1.1 pounds (500 g).
Other Controllers: The Wii U console is capable of supporting, depending on the software, two Wii U GamePad controllers, up to four Wii Remote (or Wii Remote Plus) controllers or Wii U™ Pro Controllers, and Wii™ accessories such as the Nunchuk, Classic Controller and Wii Balance Board.
CPU: IBM Power®-based multi-core processor
GPU: AMD Radeon™-based High Definition GPU
Storage: Wii U uses an internal flash memory (8 GB with the Basic Pack; 32 GB with the Premium Pack) for data storage. It also supports SDHC memory cards and external USB storage.
Media: Wii U and Wii optical discs. Wii U optical discs have a 25 GB data capacity.
Video Output: Supports 1080p, 1080i, 720p, 480p and 480i. Compatible cables include HDMI™, Wii D-Terminal, Wii Component Video, Wii RGB, Wii S-Video Stereo AV and Wii AV.
Audio Output: Uses six-channel PCM linear output via HDMI connector, or analog output via the AV Multi Out connector.
Networking: Wii U can be connected to the Internet via a wireless (IEEE 802.11b/g/n) connection. The console features four USB 2.0 connectors – two in the front and two in the rear – that support Wii LAN Adapters for a wired Internet connection.
Wii Compatibility: Nearly all Wii software and accessories can be used with Wii U.
Energy Efficiency: Wii U utilizes specially designed power-saving features to lower its energy consumption.
Wii U Retail Set Options:
Basic Pack –
– 8 GB internal memory for storage
– Wii U console (white)
– Wii U GamePad (white)
– Wii U AC adapter
– Wii U GamePad AC adapter
— HDMI® cable
SRP AU $349.95
Premium Pack –
– Nintendo Land game
– 32 GB internal memory for storage
– Wii U console (black)
– Wii U GamePad (black)
– Wii U AC adapter
– Wii U GamePad AC adapter
– HDMI® cable
– Sensor bar
– Wii U GamePad cradle
– Wii U GamePad stand
– Wii U console stand
SRP AU $429.95