Nintendo's Alarm Clock Beats GTA 6 to Market

Nintendo's Surprise: An Interactive Alarm Clock and a Mysterious Switch Online Playtest

Who saw this coming? Nintendo has launched a new interactive alarm clock, the Nintendo Sound Clock: Alarmo, completely unexpectedly. Adding to the surprise, they've also announced a secretive Switch Online playtest.

The Nintendo Sound Clock: Alarmo - Wake Up in a Game World!

Free Sound Packs on the Way!

Priced at $99, the Alarmo uses game sounds to rouse you from slumber. Nintendo boasts that it makes you feel like you're waking up *inside* a Nintendo game. Featuring alarm sounds from popular franchises like Mario, Zelda, and Splatoon, with free updates promised, the Alarmo offers a unique wake-up experience.

The alarm's clever design ensures you actually get out of bed. It only silences when you leave your bed, rewarding your early rise with a "brief victory fanfare." A wave of your hand will temporarily lower the volume, but prolonged slumber only increases the alarm's intensity.

Setup is simple: choose a game, select a scene, set your alarm, and let the Alarmo work its magic. The interactivity lies in its ability to detect when you've left your bed.

Utilizing a radio wave sensor, the Alarmo measures your distance and movement speed without the need for cameras, prioritizing user privacy. Developer Tetsuya Akama explains that its radio wave technology allows for detection even in dark rooms or with obstacles present.

Early Access for Switch Online Members!

For a limited time, Nintendo Switch Online members in the US and Canada can purchase the Alarmo through the My Nintendo Store before its general release. The Nintendo New York store also offers in-person purchases while supplies last.

A Sneak Peek at the Future: Nintendo Switch Online Playtest

Applications Open October 10!

Nintendo has also revealed an upcoming Switch Online playtest, with applications opening October 10th, 8:00 AM PT / 11:00 AM ET, and closing October 15th, 7:59 AM PT / 10:59 AM ET. This playtest focuses on a new feature for the Nintendo Switch Online service.

Up to 10,000 participants will be selected, with those outside Japan chosen on a first-come, first-served basis. The playtest itself runs from October 23rd, 6:00 PM PT / 9:00 PM ET to November 5th, 4:59 PM PT / 7:59 PM ET. Eligibility requires an active Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership, being at least 18 years old, and having a Nintendo Account registered in one of seven specified countries (Japan, USA, UK, France, Germany, Italy, or Spain).