Watch Local Video Files on Your Wii U - A Simple Guide
Streaming Videos to Your Wii U: A Network Solution
The Nintendo Wii U console provides access to popular streaming services like Netflix, YouTube, and Hulu, offering a wide range of entertainment options.
However, Nintendo does not natively support the playback of media files directly from external drives or media servers.
Utilizing the Wii U Web Browser for Streaming
A workaround exists, leveraging the Wii U’s built-in web browser. This browser possesses the capability to stream MP4 files.
By combining this functionality with a media server application installed on your computer, you can effectively stream videos to your television via your Wii U console.
How to Implement the Solution
The process involves installing a media server on your computer. This software will make your video files accessible over your home network.
Subsequently, you can utilize the Wii U’s web browser to access and play these videos, displaying them on either your TV or the gamepad screen.
This method provides a convenient way to enjoy your personal video library on your Wii U, despite the lack of dedicated media player application.
Setting Up a Media Server on Your Computer
Related: A Guide to Establishing a Home Media Server Accessible From Any Device
Initially, a media server program must be installed on your computer, whether it runs Windows, macOS, or Linux.
Several options are available for this purpose. Previously, an application called VidiiU, designed specifically for the Wii U, was frequently suggested by users. However, its official website is currently unavailable, and the associated Twitter account indicates that development has ceased. Despite the continued presence of online guides recommending this software, it is advisable to avoid it.
While not the sole solution, Plex is a highly recommended choice. It remains a leading program for establishing a home media server. Plex offers a user-friendly web interface accessible not only from the Wii U, but also from other computers, smartphones, tablets, and streaming devices like Roku. Importantly, Plex can automatically convert media files to the MP4 format compatible with the Wii U, eliminating the need for manual conversion – Plex handles this process automatically. A premium version of Plex exists, but is not required; all functionalities can be utilized without cost.
Download and install the Plex Media Server onto your computer. Following installation, you will be guided through creating a free account and completing the initial setup. Direct Plex to your media library, which is the directory on your computer where your video files are stored.
Access Streaming Video on Your Wii U via the Internet Browser
Begin by selecting the Home button on your Wii U’s gamepad. This action will navigate you to the main home screen.
From the home screen, locate and tap the Internet Browser icon. It is identifiable by its blue color and globe shape, positioned centrally at the screen’s bottom.
Within the browser, tap the "Enter URL" field located at the top of the screen. Then, input the following web address:
https://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/3607085/type/dlg/sid/UUhtgUeUpU219074/https://plex.tv/web
Related: Discovering a Device's IP Address, MAC Address, and Network Connection Details
Should an internet connection be unavailable, a direct connection to the computer hosting Plex is possible. To accomplish this, you must first determine your computer’s local IP address.
Once the IP address is known, enter it into the browser’s address bar in this format: http://[IP address]:32400/web
For example, if your Plex server’s IP address is 192.168.0.100, the address to enter would be:
http://192.168.0.100:32400/web
Regardless of the connection method used, the Plex web interface will then be displayed on your Wii U’s screen. You can then navigate your media library from this interface.
Selecting a video will display further information. Tapping the video again will initiate playback.
During video playback, touch controls will become available on your gamepad. The video itself will be displayed on your television.
You have the option to mirror the video onto the gamepad screen or utilize the gamepad solely for playback controls. This functionality compensates for the absence of a dedicated Plex application, unlike those available on PlayStation and Xbox consoles.
To watch a video, simply place it within the library folder monitored by Plex on your computer. Provided your computer remains powered on, you can access your Plex server through the Wii U’s internet browser and stream the content over your network.
This eliminates the need for USB drives or SD cards. For convenient future access, consider bookmarking your Plex server’s address within the Wii U’s browser.
Alternative Approaches and Considerations
The Wii U also features a "Wii mode" operating system, which could potentially be jailbroken to install homebrew media center applications. However, this is not recommended.
Wii mode is limited to a lower screen resolution, whereas the Wii U supports up to 1080p. The web browser and media server solution described above provides a superior viewing experience.
Image Credit: ze_bear on Flickr