Topic: System Update 3.1.0

Latest update 3.1.0 is just a general stability & performance update with exception of the WiiU will no periodically check for Spotpass data, game and system updates when powered down rather than only after initially powering down the system.
Another update is due sept/oct to add more features.
http://www.gonintendo.com/?mode=viewstory&id=207231

I hope you can disable this because sometimes my mom unplugs my Wii U (even if I ask her not to) in the night the time when I'm already sleeping to "conserve energy" (maybe it's saving like $5-$10 a year by unplugging it?)
If it's updating and she unplugs it that could be BAD

The updates won't harm the Wii U if they are only downloading. It's the installation that kills systems

The power light is orange while anything is downloading/updating while powered down to let you know but can be turned of In the Power settings.

You can disable this in System Settings.

The thing is the system now installs downloaded stuff during this stand-by mode.

Official blurb:
Version 3.1.0 U includes the following improvements:
Improvements to Standby Functions:
The standby functions will now regularly connect to the Internet when the Wii U is powered down to check for available SpotPass data or software and system updates. Software updates will be installed while the Wii U is powered down, and system updates will be installed the next time the Wii U is powered on.
Improvements to system stability and usability:
Further improvements to overall system stability and other minor adjustments have been made to enhance the user experience.

Nintendo - "A system update providing further additions to system functionality is planned for release between the end of September and beginning of October.”

Don't worry Nintendo. I'm sure those Wii U owners wont mind the wait until Sept/Oct for that update while they play all those hot Wii U releases like....uh...crickets

Game and Wario
Pikmin 3
Super Luigi U
The Wonderful 101

I'm pretty sure it'll still have to ask you before you install a system update. All of those warnings about potentially bricking your system and blocking unauthorised mods etc, etc. It'll almost surely just download them and prompt you to update when you next boot the system.

[edit]
ahh, didn't notice this

So there you go.

ASHES CRICKET 2013

Should have clarified. I meant everything that wasn't an update to the firmware/OS, so game updates would count.

A game update that doesn't instal properly won't brick the system, a firmware update can.

Ps4/Xbone both update software and firmware while powered down... wether firmware waits for install on next power-up I dont know but Not having to wait for software to update when you want to play it is a good, convenient thing, and its going to be the norm.
If you disconnect the system from the mains after finished playing then the software won't update, and you can disable Standby functions in the System Settings if you don't want to update software when the system on standby.

Mmm, good point.