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

A Nintendo interactive alarm clock? It's a reality! Beyond the recently unveiled Nintendo Sound Clock: Alarmo, Nintendo has also launched a secretive Switch Online playtest.

The Nintendo Sound Clock: Alarmo

Free Alarm Sound Updates on the Way!

Priced at $99, the "Nintendo Sound Clock: Alarmo" is an interactive alarm clock designed to make waking up feel like stepping into a Nintendo game. Alarmo uses game-inspired sounds from titles like Mario, Zelda, and Splatoon, with free additional sounds promised in the future.

The alarm's unique feature? It only silences when you fully leave your bed, rewarding your morning triumph with a virtual victory fanfare. Setup is simple: choose a game, select a scene, set the alarm time, and let Alarmo's interactivity take over. While waving your hand near the clock will temporarily lower the volume, prolonged slumber will intensify the alarm until you finally rise and shine.

According to Nintendo, Alarmo utilizes a "radio wave sensor" to measure distance and movement speed without compromising privacy. Nintendo developer Tetsuya Akama explains, "It can detect subtle movements without video recording, offering better privacy than camera-based solutions. Its radio wave technology enables use in dark rooms and detection even with obstacles, provided the waves can pass through."

Early access is available for Nintendo Switch Online members in the US and Canada via the My Nintendo Store for a limited time. The Nintendo New York store also offers in-person purchases while supplies last.

A New Nintendo Switch Online Playtest

Applications Open October 10th!

Nintendo has also announced a Switch Online playtest, accepting applications from October 10th, 8:00 AM PT / 11:00 AM ET to October 15th, 7:59 AM PT / 10:59 AM ET. This playtest focuses on a new Nintendo Switch Online service feature.

Up to 10,000 participants will be selected, with those outside Japan chosen on a first-come, first-served basis. The application period may close early if the participant limit is reached. Eligibility requires:

• An active Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership by October 9th, 2024, 3:00 PM PDT.
• Being at least 18 years old by October 9th, 2024, 3:00 PM PDT.
• A Nintendo Account registered in Japan, the USA, UK, France, Germany, Italy, or Spain.

The playtest runs from October 23rd, 2024, 6:00 PM PT / 9:00 PM ET to November 5th, 2024, 4:59 PM PT / 7:59 PM ET.