Nintendo Updates Wii OS To Block Pirate/Homebrew Content

Nintendo has released a new Wii firmware update, Wii Menu version 4.3, that is intended to disable unauthorized files and prevent "homebrew" mods on the console. The primary aim of such an upgrade is to prevent software piracy. Says Nintendo: "Because unauthorized channels or firmware may impair game play or the Wii console, updating to Wii Menu version 4.3 will check for and automatically remove such unauthorized files." Continues the company's statement: "In addition, there are some behind the scenes enhancements that do not affect any prominently-used features or menus but will improve system performance." Discussions on numerous web communities that play home to homebrewers and hackers alike appear to confirm that the new update disables multiple third-party programs previously used to access the Wii. Platform holders in general continually evolve their firmware with iterative updates geared at keeping pace with clever modding communities and at blocking piracy on their systems. Often such updates are deployed quietly, making Nintendo's direct announcement a little less common.