During the latest installment of Nintendo Direct,  Satoru Iwata confirmed that the Wii U spring system update announced back in January will be hitting next week.

The update improves the loading times when switching between software, or returning to the main system menu. New features include the ability to copy date between two USB drives, installing new software in the background while playing a game, and automatic download of software updates without even starting the software.

Pressing the B button while starting up the system will automatically launch the system’s Wii Mode, and your Wii U can now continue to download and install software while powered off thanks to a new standby function.

The Wii U Virtual Console will be available the day after the system update, allowing you to play classic games directly on your Gamepad with off-TV play. Each game will also have their own Miiverse community.

Wii U Panorama View will launch following the update as well, with four titles available. Different from the Wii U Street View software, the new app allows you to watch videos in 360 degrees. A free demo will be available on the eShop.

DOUBLE-DECKER TOUR, RICKSHAW AROUND KYOTO, BIRDS IN FLIGHT, and CARNIVAL! can be downloaded in a bundle pack for £1.99 or £1.79 for each individual title.

Share your comments below or on Twitter @STARBURST_MAG 

Find your local Starburst Magazine stockist HERE, or buy direct from us HERE. Our issues are also available as fully interactive iPad editions, loaded with multimedia, and can be downloaded via Apple HERE.

Click To Buy