Nintendo DSi and Wii firmware update

Following in the footsteps of Sony, Nintendo have updated the firmware for both the DSi and the Wii in what seems to be a continual battle to block users from using 3rd party devices to run unauthorised and pirated software.

For the Wii this means an update to the firmware version 4.3. The inconspicuous official description Nintendo gave this update was “An update that provides behind-the-scenes improvements to Wii Menu 4.3.” However upon further investigation, when updating, a warning will appear, stating that “If your Wii console includes unauthorized modifications this update may detect and remove unauthorized content causing immediate or delayed inoperability of your console.”

For the DSi, an update to version 1.4.1 will block users from using flashcards, a popular method for the use of homebrew software. The update does not affect all flashcards according to reports circulating the internet.

It seems that Nintendo is taking a greater initiative in combating piracy. However, unlike the Xbox 360 and the PS3, the Wii and DSi reliance on the internet is less significant and this may hinder the effectiveness of combating homebrew and 3rd party modifications.