The LEDs can be seen by some digital cameras, phone cameras, and other devices with a wider visible spectrum than the human eye. The Classic Controller is reminiscent of the Super NES controller, being the same size and having the A, B X, Y, L and R buttons and directional pad in the same location. Innovative users have used other sources of IR light, such as a pair of flashlights or a pair of candles, as Sensor Bar substitutes. Critics felt that fault was largely attributed to the developers' lack of experience with the Wii Remote.

Dozens of Wii titles are also compatible with the controller to allow for a more traditional control scheme. On August 3, 2007, a new wrist strap was found to be supplied, with a lock clip instead of a movable slide to prevent the strap from working loose during prolonged play; [30] the lock clip strap became the standard form. The Wii Remote had the capability of turning the main console's power on or off remotely with a power button, further reinforcing the impression that it looks like a television remote.

In 2000, the term " Weemote" was trademarked by Miami based TV remote manufacturer Fobis Technologies and was later used as the name of their remote designed for young children. He expressed that "What we found is that the reason we wanted to have a Zapper is when you hold a Wii Remote, it can be difficult for some people to keep a steady hand.

The controller communicates wirelessly with the console via short-range Bluetooth radio, with which it is possible to operate up to four controllers at a distance of up to 10 metres (30 ft) from the console.

Its main use is the analog stick and the extra buttons, but it also has XYZ accelerometers so you can shake and jab it. The Wii Remote picks up traces of heat from the sensor, then transmits it to the Wii console to control the pointer on your screen. Fobis sent out up to 100 cease and desist letters to retailers and have made offers to Nintendo for them to purchase the trademark. However, the recommended mode of play is with just the controller, with or without the Wii Wheel attachment (you get one Wheel with the game). A year later, Nintendo began releasing Wii Remote Plus controllers that are themed after Mario characters, starting with Mario and Luigi on November 1, 2013, [72] to accompany the release of the Wii U Deluxe set.

Sources also indicate that the Wii Remote was originally in development as a controller for the GameCube, rather than the Wii. Some other attachments include the Classic Controller, Wii Zapper, and the Wii Wheel, which has originally been used for the racing game, Mario Kart Wii.

The controller was made slightly longer, and a speaker was added to the face beneath the center row of buttons. In May 2013, Nintendo announced a rechargeable battery and dock accessory, and various third-party manufacturers market charging solutions for the controller (see Wii Remote Chargers). To measure still Nunchuk rotation in space, the following approximate bounds apply: X goes from around 300 (fully tilted left) to 740 (tilted right), turning further starts bringing the value closer to 512 (neutral position).

Tod Kurt previously created a library for the nunchuck intended for use with his product, the WiiChuck Adapter.In North America, the blue and pink Wii Remotes were released February 14, 2010, in a bundle with a standard white Wii MotionPlus. A 3300µF capacitor provides a temporary source of power during quick movements of the Wii Remote when connection to the batteries may be temporarily interrupted. The quality of Nunchuks being sold is just so random, but some can work and feel just as good (or bad) as the official ones.