ErikaSzabo
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In addition to unveiling the release date for the anticipated Wii U, Nintendo also unveiled an exciting new feature for the console: Nintendo TVii. This application will let North American Wii U owners watch and explore video content via the GamePad controller.
Find your favourite TV shows, movies and more from a variety of sources, all in one place including Netflix, Hulu Plus, Amazon Instant Video, TiVo as well as your TV. When you've found what you want to watch you can then switch over to the big screen and use the GamePad for additional content. While there were no specifics on what exactly the Gamepad is capable of while watching, it seems you'll be able to multitask with related content and share via social media sites.
Surprisingly, Nintendo is not in charge of this application, instead i.TV is the company powering this integrated television system. About a week ago Engadget spoke with the CEO of i.TV, Brad Pelo, about this partnership and why it made sense for the company to take the jump.
"The genesis of the experience you're seeing here was really when the Wii U was announced, and it was clear that this is the ideal second screen," Pelo explained. "You might not think of it as the ideal hardware compared to an iPad if I really had a dedicated second screen, but it is in the living room, and it's persistent. It doesn't even really work outside of the living room – it's attached to the main viewing service in the home."
It's still hard to say how effective and intuitive TVii will be, but here's hoping the partnership will prove to be a success for both Nintendo and i.TV. The experience is extremely ambitious and will change the way we think of our living rooms and how we can integrate it with a range of technologies, that's for sure.
Check out the full interview with Brad Pelo at Engadget
If you're interested in watcing the Nintendo TVii Trailer for yourself check it out below:
The Wii U will be available November 18. You can pre-order both the 8GB and 32GB versions at Future Shop:
The next generation of gaming has arrived with the Nintendo Wii U. Sporting stunning next generation graphics, the Wii U introduces a new way to play the games you love thanks to the Wii U GamePad's touchscreen controls. The Wii U also offers online play with the revamped Nintendo Network as well as full backwards compatibility with Nintendo Wii titles. The Wii U 8GB Basic comes in white.
The future of gaming has arrived with the Nintendo Wii U. Sporting jaw-dropping next generation graphics and a revolution in gaming control thanks to the Wii U GamePad touchscreen, the Wii U delivers a gaming package like no other. Also enjoy full backwards compatibility with Nintendo Wii titles and a revamped online offering through the Nintendo Network. This 32GB Deluxe Edition comes in black.
