Using the international resources of the Associated Press, the News Channel gives Wii users free access to stories in multiple categories from across the country and around the world. The News Channel features an easy-to-use interface for locating and reading news items.
Please note that a compatible internet connection is required to use the News Channel (click here if you need assistance connecting your Wii console online), and the WiiConnect24 feature must be turned on (more info).
What sort of information do you need?
When accessing the News Channel for the first time, you will need to download the "update" for the News Channel, if you have not already done so.
The list of available sections allows you to read news articles in a wide range of categories. With the exception of the "International" section, many of the stories within the various sections can be specific to the country selected in the Wii console's Settings menu (click here for information on this setting). News articles are typically updated several times a day, depending on the feed from the Associated Press.
Selecting the "Slideshow" option will rotate individual headlines from the various sections of the News Channel.
The "Globe" allows you to take control of a 3D model of the Earth and read news items from around the world.
To access the "Globe" feature:
Using the Globe:
The following options and controls are available in the News Channel.
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Standard Article : Stories that feature this icon next to them are not associated to the "Globe" feature. |
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Global Link: Selecting a news story with a small blue disc next to it will give you access to the "Globe" feature (click here for more info). |
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Directional Arrows: When these arrows appear on screen, it is an indication that there are additional areas above or below the section you are viewing. To view these areas, place the hand cursor of the Wii Remote on the top or bottom half of the page, and press the B Button to scroll up or down. |
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"A" Button of the Wii Remote (Select): Use the A Button to click on news stories or menu navigation, to select them. You can also point at and press the A Button on the cat at the top of the News Channel's loading screen, to receive tips on using the News Channel. |
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Plus Button of the Wii Remote (Zoom In): Press the "+" on the Wii Remote to zoom in, which enlarges text and images, which can make them easier to view. There are several levels of zoom available. You can press and hold "+" or tap it. |
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Minus Button of the Wii Remote (Zoom Out): Press the "-" on the Wii Remote to zoom out, making the text and images smaller, but fitting more content in the viewable area. There are several levels of zoom available. You can press and hold "-" or tap it. |
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"1" Button of the Wii Remote (Highlight Text): Hold down the "1" button and move the cursor over text to highlight in red, and underline, the text. While in the "Slideshow" mode, pressing the "1" Button will increase the time that individual headlines are displayed. |
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"2" Button of the Wii Remote: While in the "Slideshow" mode, pressing the "2" Button will decrease the time that individual headlines are displayed. |
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Navigating the "Globe": For detailed instructions on navigating the "Globe" feature, click here. |
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What is the difference between news stories that feature the "Newspaper icon" and those that feature the "blue dot" icon?
Icons that feature the blue circle next to them will allow you a view of the article's focus on an interactive global map. Articles that feature a gray-and-white newspaper icon next to the headline do not contain a link to the globe. For information on working with the global map, click here.
What languages does the News Channel support?
For the North American market, articles can appear in English, French, and Spanish. Please keep in mind that not all articles are available in multiple languages, and are dependant on the feed from the Associated Press.
What is the purpose of the cat at the top of the loading screen?
While the News Channel is loading, place the cursor of the Wii Remote on the cat, and press the A Button to receive a tip on using the News Channel.
