SpotPass delivered content from the Internet to the consoles, while StreetPass uses local Wi-Fi functionality to exchange data between 3DS systems.
SpotPass was a Nintendo 3DS and Wii U "always on" online background connectivity system, similarly to how predecessor WiiConnect24 originally functioned with Wii, which could automatically seek and connect to wireless network nodes such as Wi-Fi hotspots, sending and downloading information in the background while in sleep mode or while playing a game or running an application.
When SpotPass data is received while the system is not in sleep mode, the notification LED will blink blue a few times before returning to being off.
[4] SpotPass also makes uses of certified hotspots to access an application called Nintendo Zone.
After leaving the hotspot, although the app remains on their Nintendo 3DS system, the player becomes unable to access it.
Using this data slot, Nintendo 3DS users can readily share and exchange content for multiple games at the same time, whenever they are connected.
[5] Using the console's background connectivity, a Nintendo 3DS in Sleep Mode can automatically discover other Nintendo 3DS systems within range, establish a connection, and exchange content for mutually played games, all transparently and without requiring any user input.
[9] It was powered by Hbase, Puppet, fluentd, and Amazon Web Services cloud technologies.
On March 28, 2018, StreetPass Relays worldwide were shut down, with the exception of the Nintendo store in New York City and Best Buy locations in Canada.