An updated version of Pokémon Snap hits the Virtual Console alongside a firmware update.

A new Wii firmware update is now available alongside a Wii Photo Channel update and Pokémon Snap.

The firmware update will add the gift-giving ability to the Wii Shop Channel - you will now be able to buy Virtual Console games for people in your Wii Address Book. Just in time for Christmas, too. All you need to do is choose a game as normal and select the option to give instead of download. The Wii Shop Channel will also have a new logo on the Wii Menu and a new launch page.

Secondly, there is an optional update for the Wii Photo Channel. This update will remove support for playing mp3 files and replace it with the option to play acc files (which is most commonly known as iTunes' default file type). This update is entirely optional and won't effect mp3 playback in Excite Truck or Endless Ocean. You will also be able to select some photos to appear on the Photo Channel's Wii Menu icon.

Nintendo have also treated us with an early Virtual Console update. You will now be able to purchase an updated version of the N64 game Pokémon Snap for 1000 Wii Points. In Pokémon Snap you travel along a pre-set path taking snaps of various Pokémon, trying to get the best shots possible for 'em all. The Virtual Console version will allow you to send your precious Pokémon snaps to your friends via the Wii Message Board.

Update: A curious limitation in the Shopping Channel gift giving feature is that you can only buy games for people on your friends list in your own region. So if you live in Europe, there's no buying games for those who live in America, or vice versa. More on this as it comes.