In the light of a growing number of Internet reports of Wii owners losing control of their Remotes and damaging furniture, walls, electronics, and bystanders, Nintendo has begun as of early December to put a slightly different wrist strap in the box including a more robust-looking loop where the strap attaches to the Remote.

NOA's illustration of the different strap versions

Customers who purchased Wii prior to the change-over and who have older versions of the strap can request free replacements from Nintendo of America. The company expects to begin shipping the new straps December 21st.