Wii U News: You Can Now Transfer Content From One Console To Another

You can now transfer your Wii U content to another Wii U console, thanks to a recent software update from Nintendo. Both Wii U devices need to be up to date (version 5.1.0), and once the data transfer is finished, the original Wii U will reformat its content automatically.

Nintendo Network IDs, saved data, downloaded content and users will be transferrable to a new Wii U system.

“Nintendo constantly aims to improve the functionality of its systems and services to provide the easiest, most user-friendly experience possible. As a part of these efforts, we are making Wii U system updates available for download via the Internet,” the Kyoto, Japan, consumer electronics brand said on its support site.

Nintendo warns the data transfer won’t work with any unauthorized software or devices. Though you can transfer data from one console to another, you still can’t backup saved files.

Since the Wii U's debut in 2012, the console's sales figures have been less than impressive. Last year's release of Microsoft's Xbox One and Sony's PlayStation 4 have done little to help the Wii U's struggling numbers.

The rollout May 30 of “Mario Kart 8” significantly increased the console’s low numbers.

Market research company NPD Group of Port Washington, New York, said “Mario Kart 8” was the third-best-selling software in May. It also became the Wii U’s fastest-selling game with more than 1.2 million units sold worldwide within less than two weeks of its launch.

The eighth main installment in the series also boosted Wii U console sales more than first-person shooter “Titanfall” boosted Xbox One sales following its release in March and more than action-adventure game “inFAMOUS: Second Son” increased PlayStation 4 sales after its March 21 release date.

Since the release of “Mario Kart 8,” the Wii U has even outsold the Xbox One. As of June 14, Wii U’s global install base was at 6.4 million. The Xbox One was at 4.6 million and the PS4 was at 8.1 million. However, the PS4 and Xbox One launched last November while the Wii U hit shelves almost a year earlier in 2012.