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Wii U firmware update now live, adds Quick Start option

Plus GamePad notifications even when your console's on standby.

Nintendo has updated the Wii U's system software to version 5.0, bringing with it a new Quick Start menu to load recently-used games and apps.

Power up the Wii U via the GamePad and you'll be able to skip loading the console's Home screen by simply selecting one of your 10 last-used pieces of software.

The update also brings with it GamePad notifications, which will be downloaded to the device for you to check without booting the console itself.

Nintendo will use the service to send you information on new games, products and promotions and will notify you with an alert sound, but you can limit or switch off the feature if you find it too intrusive.

Other improvements include the ability for your Wii U to now automatically install future system updates while in standby (previously it would only just download them).

The update is available to download now in Europe - we updated our Wii U this morning.