Can a Wii U GamePad Connect to a Wii? No—Hardware/Protocol Mismatch

No. The Wii U GamePad cannot pair with a Wii.

• Different Bluetooth Versions: GamePad uses BT 4.0; Wii Remote uses BT 2.0.
• Hardware Mismatch: GamePad has touchscreen, gyro, camera—Wii software doesn't recognize them.
• Protocol Incompatibility: Wii OS lacks drivers for GamePad.

Use Wii Remotes on Wii; GamePad stays with Wii U.