If you have your Wii constantly connected to the internet via WiiConnect24, you will have woken up this morning to a blue glowing disc slot - Nintendo's way of alerting you to the new Internet Channel update now available.
You can finally ditch the trial version of the Opera browser and download the full and final package, which comes with added features, such as 'www.' and '.com' buttons as well as improved functionality like a faster boot-up and better zoom capability.
You can download it right now for free, first by updating your system, then grabbing the update from the Wii Software page on the Shop Channel.
Do it soon though because Nintendo will slap a 500-Wii-Point price tag on the browser from June onwards.
The DS version is very slow and impractical in today's age of Internet sites with no compatibility for any of the common plug-ins.
The Wii version, while obviously a pre-release version was very buggy with text input the most problematic and Wii Remote battery intensive with vibration function on button hover overload. I hope it is vastly improved, however, did they ask the public how it could be improved? No. So I don't see why a pre-release version was offered anyway.
I think it's because people were beginning to get irate that none of the promised channels had been released. Remember, we didn't have News or Forcast channel at that time iirc.
I love Opera. I can't speak for the Wii version (I'm hoping mine will arrive before they start charging for this), but I've used various incarnations of the PC version over the years and rarely have any trouble.
In fact, with version 9 I've not found any sites with the incompatibility issues of older ones.
As for the Wii version, it seems a little grabby to charge for the browser when the full PC version has been free for months now. Come on, with like 7 million units sold, does Nintendo really need that money?
I agree that charging for the browser is an odd idea, but on the flip side, Nintendo have paid Opera to develop this software. I doubt Opera would have developed this if they were not asked. And Nintendo have had to setup the infrastructure for offering this software.
So they need to recoup their costs. Rememeber, Nintendo rarely do things that will lose them any money.
But hey, it's still a lot cheaper than the DS version.
Don't see the point in the Wii browser. Chances are that if you have an internet connection you have a PC/Mac with two or three BETTER browsers already on there. I got all excited when I saw the disk slot glowing this morning too
I have a PC upstairs with IE7, but I've been using the beta Wii browser quite a bit since December. It's useful for looking at key sites for news, sports scores etc. and opening mail. I also use it to browse youtube as well, from the sofa.
Iv just used it, its soooo much better than the preveiw version, the bar at the bottom of the screen is smaller, the web pages acutally fit to the screen you atleast 10 levels of zoom, yahoo or google search on the nav bar and everything runs smoother and faster than before, all in all a vast improvment! Well done Opera!
the opera browser has been superb for using YouTube - you can blow it up almost full screen, far more enjoyable watching US telly stuff like battlestar galactica on it, than my small screen mac book.
I don't know why so many f*cking nerds are slamming Opera, obviously these are Sony fanboys with nothing else to complain about, so they slag off Nintendo.
Keep up the good work Ninty, your splendid work is paying off, with both mainstream and hardcore gamers in your corner! R
I don't know why so many f*cking nerds are slamming Opera, obviously these are Sony fanboys with nothing else to complain about, so they slag off Nintendo.
Keep up the good work Ninty, your splendid work is paying off, with both mainstream and hardcore gamers in your corner! R
The only thing in this thread that smacks of fanboyism so far is your post. As much as I hate blind fanboys of any type - it's always the Nintendo ones that are the worst.
Actually I would say it's the highlighted comment that smells of fanboyism since it's not even relevant to the topic. We're discussing the latest update and he spends all that time writing about the downsides of the DS version and the pre-release version of the Wii? What the f**k? He could at least put some effort into it and write something about the latest version as well, it's still free after all. Did he try it? If not why so negative?
Similarly for your own comment. If you find it pointless why must you express that out of nowhere, is it such a negative thing people should know about before downloading it? It's not like they force you to use it. Besides, even if you don't use it others do, so you might as well comment on the topic, the actual update and what you think of it.
Is it good or is it bad? Are there compatibility issues or things to criticise other than basically saying "I don't use it myself"?
I'm using the new Wii browser right now , and already it seems like a much better improvement, especially with all the new features, options and faster loading times. The only things I've got to complain about so far are the new scrolling and zooming functions as I'm finding them a bit dodgy, but I guess I'll get used to them soon enough.
Note to CVG: it's going to cost from July onwards, not June.
Other then that, it's pretty solid. They delivered on what they promised, and is overall so much better then the beta. It's just a shame I won't be able to check out most stuff from IGN, Gametrailers, Gamevideos etc etc...
Similarly for your own comment. If you find it pointless why must you express that out of nowhere, is it such a negative thing people should know about before downloading it? It's not like they force you to use it. Besides, even if you don't use it others do, so you might as well comment on the topic, the actual update and what you think of it.
So because I have a negative oppinion of console browsers in general I'm to keep quiet? It IS on topic, I DON'T see the point of console browsers beyond checking football scores now and again. Everyone seems to be adding a browser to anything with a circuit board in it at the minute. No, noone forces me to use it but does that mean I can't post my views on the subject? I've read a few of your posts recently and you seem to feel the need to belittle whoever it is you're responding to. Try keeping THOSE comments to yourself. As for the update itself... it's a console browser. It's not as good as a PC browser. I have a Mac that is constantly on, I'll use the Wii one to check the football when, for whatever reason, my Mac is off... or maybe I'll use the one on my PS3... or the one on my phone... or the one MS will no doubt add to the 360... or the ones that will soon be in my watch, wall, skateboard, fridge, underpants, trainers...
Regarding the first comment, Opera is by far the best browser (on the PC at least). Seemingly unbeknownst to Firefox users, every single reason they typically cite for why their preferred browsers pwns IE (better security, better compliancy, lower system requirements, more stable, less bugs, etc, etc) is also a reason why they should be using Opera instead of Firefox.
Actually I would say it's the highlighted comment that smells of fanboyism since it's not even relevant to the topic. We're discussing the latest update and he spends all that time writing about the downsides of the DS version and the pre-release version of the Wii? What the f**k? He could at least put some effort into it and write something about the latest version as well, it's still free after all. Did he try it? If not why so negative?
I do beg your pardon? I spent two lines talking about the DS version and it was meant as a comparison to the Wii's pre-release version. The majority of my post was commenting on what was wrong with the pre-release and what I hope they've fixed with the final version. I am stating my scepticism based on my overall usage of the pre-release and DS versions. How that is off-topic, I don't know.
theideal, once again you fail to state why it's inferior other than "it's a console browser" as if they all are the same which is blatantly wrong, especially in the case of Opera which while it may have differences between versions it did originate on the PC. You also fail to understand that "I don't use it" doesn't make something a bad OPTION and it doesn't reduce its value for other people who don't feel the need to purchase all the gadgets you do.
Nick, it's out, it's free, go try it and see if it's improved or not instead of being all negative before you even do that.
Regarding the first comment, Opera is by far the best browser (on the PC at least). Seemingly unbeknownst to Firefox users, every single reason they typically cite for why their preferred browsers pwns IE (better security, better compliancy, lower system requirements, more stable, less bugs, etc, etc) is also a reason why they should be using Opera instead of Firefox.
When it comes to my browser on my PC, I don't give a monkey's what one I use. I currently use IE7, however, I have used all browsers at some point. Netscape Navigator, Firefox and Opera. I never liked Opera on the PC either. I also found it slower than all the other browsers, apart from Netscape.
When it comes to security issues and such, you shoulnd't have a problem whichever browser you use as long as you don't view any dodgy websites, emails or download dodgy software.
Something must be wrong with your PC because Opera has been the fastest browser around since its early days even though compatibility did suffer back then. It also used much less resources than other browsers.
weres the flash player support...youtube works fine...but how do i see the flash boxes on bebo or the majority of movies and programs on peekvid.com etc..i was looking forward to watchin them on my tv from my couch instead ogf hunched over my monitor..aw well....keyboard support wouldnt go astray either!overall i find it to be a competant browser thats completely free(for no) for a console !
theideal, once again you fail to state why it's inferior other than "it's a console browser" as if they all are the same which is blatantly wrong, especially in the case of Opera which while it may have differences between versions it did originate on the PC. You also fail to understand that "I don't use it" doesn't make something a bad OPTION and it doesn't reduce its value for other people who don't feel the need to purchase all the gadgets you do.
No keyboard and mouse = slower = inferior to PC browser. And I said I don't see the point not there is no point. And no, most people don't feel the need to purchase all the gadgets I do but if they're using the Wii browser then I have a feeling they have a broadband connection, and if they have a braodband connection you can bet it wasn't purchased just to connect the Wii to the interweb, which means they own a PC or Mac too. Now I have no problem with the browser if it's free but when they start charging for it it becomes a total waste of money.
Seems pointless, anybody that has wiiconnect24 already has an internet connection, so why not just use the original one, the browser is pointless with the news channel and weather channel so you can check the obvious, i'm sure somebody will use it them and rake nintendo more millions, i'm going to ask shigsy for a loan i think..
i was looking forward to watchin them on my tv from my couch instead ogf hunched over my monitor
And why exactly can't you connect your PC to your TV? If you're lucky enough to have an HDMI connection on your TV, you can simply use a DVI to HDMI converter. If you've only SCART, there are also DVI to SCART converters. If you haven't even got SCART, you need a new TV!
And if you're stuck in the dark ages and don't have a DVI output on your video card, VGA to HDMI and VGA to SCART converters also exist.
[ No keyboard and mouse = slower = inferior to PC browser. And I said I don't see the point not there is no point.
Supposedly the next version of the Wii browser will support USB keyboards.
and if they have a braodband connection you can bet it wasn't purchased just to connect the Wii to the interweb, which means they own a PC or Mac too.
But it doesn't mean that they have it always on or that it's in the same general space in the house or that they can't use the Wii in the same way you use your always on Mac (for browsing) even though you have (if you have) a PC or that they can't use it in different ways like quickly showing off some youtube video to their roommmate or family. Also, controller inefficiency isn't browser inefficiency.
Now I have no problem with the browser if it's free but when they start charging for it it becomes a total waste of money.
If it's a waste you simply don't buy it so there's once again no problem with it as you still have options, you aren't forced to pay for it.
And why exactly can't you connect your PC to your TV? If you're lucky enough to have an HDMI connection on your TV, you can simply use a DVI to HDMI converter. If you've only SCART, there are also DVI to SCART converters. If you haven't even got SCART, you need a new TV!
And if you're stuck in the dark ages and don't have a DVI output on your video card, VGA to HDMI and VGA to SCART converters also exist.
Gimp...
Because that would be stupid, you would have to unplug your monitor and plug in your tv everytime (not all PC's can support two monitors at once) not to mention have your PC near you tv or start drilling.
The Wii Browser offers simple features for a lot of internet needs, you would then use your PC if you wanted a more in depth session (i.e. keyboard input)
In my opinion it is the best browser ever created for a standard TV resolution, but is no where near as tidy as the PS3 broswer.
Opera is a welcome adition to my Wii (not least because of sites like wiicade where you can play simple games for free) but I would never pay for it, and I probably wont use it much when i get round to buying a PS3 and a HDTV
having just downloaded the new FREE to use opera Wii browser, I can safely report it to be a joy to use. Before some Sony fanboy shouts and calls me a Nintendo fanboy, I own all 3 machines, PS3, Xbox and Wii.
Wii is the best for surfing on a big telly simply because of its beautiful, easy to use controller - its so natural and simple - the enhancements to the opera Wii platform make it even easier to use, zooming in, searching the web etc.
I can't see why so many of you slate a fabulous, free for now, product. Its all good so stop your moaning guys.
this post was made using the wii, which was impossible before so its already a massive improvement. its faster than my pc has a superior picture, makes a cool swoosh noise when you zoom in, has an easy to access manual, toolbar problems are gone, has google and yahoo as standard, and is just better in almost every way. one worry is that the console memory is starting to run out, i dread to think what will happen when i start to download n64 games.
Not having a go at anyone, just responding to a few posts and giving my views on the Internet Channel.
did they ask the public how it could be improved? No.
Ummm, yes they did. There's a forum or two run by Opera/Nintendo that asks for feedback on the browser. It's mentioned by the developers in an interview on Wii.com too.
As for the Wii version, it seems a little grabby to charge for the browser when the full PC version has been free for months now.
It's not just a ported PC browser, it's been built from scratch for the Wii and people need to be payed. It's been free to all those that have used it since December time and is still only a couple of quid to those late-comers..... I've spent more on lunch than the cost of the browser.
I DON'T see the point of console browsers beyond checking football scores now and again. Everyone seems to be adding a browser to anything with a circuit board in it at the minute.
I don't use the WAP on my phone because of the charge and for the reason that it's crap unless you are checking for something specific and not browsing CVG for example. I do use my Wii browser a lot though - more later.
No keyboard and mouse = slower = inferior to PC browser.
The remote's pointer function works fine for me. In fact, I find it more comfortable to use than a mouse.
As a general response to those that say it's pointless because they have a PC- There's three PCs in my house. When I get home from work my dad will be working on his, my brother will be working (looking at porn?) or something on the one upstairs and my sister or mum would have beaten me to the third to play Runescape (*Yawn*) and will be using it for hours. I then pull the sofa in front of the TV, switch my Wii on and go straight to the IC to visit CVG to read the articles and then look at a few other sites. So in my case the Wii-browser is very well received - and free to boot! I've been pleasantly surprised at how quick it is at loading webpages too! I thought the IC would be a gimmick before getting the Wii at launch and would have major lag, but no. There's still one or two bugs with the IC and it would be great to have flash so that I can watch videos on gametrailers.com, but for what I use it for 96.74352% of the time I'm a happy-camper.
I had a problem with the trial version where the virtual keyboard would close itself everytime I tried to enter text into the fields on CVG. I managed to sign into my account today with the full version, but am yet to see if the site's search-bar works.
The DS version is very slow and impractical in today's age of Internet sites with no compatibility for any of the common plug-ins.
The Wii version, while obviously a pre-release version was very buggy with text input the most problematic and Wii Remote battery intensive with vibration function on button hover overload. I hope it is vastly improved, however, did they ask the public how it could be improved? No. So I don't see why a pre-release version was offered anyway.
Actually, if you go on Opera's website, I think you'll find they did ask the public, and that's what the new version is based on.
Overall I'm very impressed. Everything that needed improving has been improved, and the new features like the built in search engine are great. I'm a bit annoyed that Adobe won't let Opera use Flash9 as some Flash videos don't work, but 95% of the time there's no problem.
Personally I use the Inernet Channel as my main browser (I'm using it right now), unless I'm on a site that requires a lot of typing, in whichcase I need a keyboard and go back to my laptop.
I'm a Firefox user but just downloaded Opera for my PC and it's great. Speed Dial web sites, Visual Tabs. I dont have a Wii but would be happy with anything that worked or looked as good.
Actually, if you go on Opera's website, I think you'll find they did ask the public, and that's what the new version is based on.
Well they did a good job of making people aware of that, didn't they?
I've had a quick go on it now, and yes, it is very good. I was impressed. When I jump between pages the current page sort of flickers a little, but everything else has been improved completely.
WOOHOO!!! Signed in with no problems! Expect more posts from me now, lol. I get a little bit of flickering too, I think it's due to the zoom feature. It's not a problem for me though - the webpages load quickly.
Actually, if you go on Opera's website, I think you'll find they did ask the public, and that's what the new version is based on.
Well they did a good job of making people aware of that, didn't they?
I've had a quick go on it now, and yes, it is very good. I was impressed. When I jump between pages the current page sort of flickers a little, but everything else has been improved completely.
I know what you mean, I didn't know they'd asked the public till after the full version was released!
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