Nintendo's New Alarm Clock Drops Ahead of 'GTA VI' Release

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, alongside a secretive Switch Online playtest. Let's dive into the details.

The Nintendo Sound Clock: Alarmo – A Wake-Up Call Like No Other

The Alarmo, priced at $99, uses game sounds to rouse you from slumber. Nintendo promises a truly immersive experience, making you feel like you're waking up inside your favorite game world. Initial sounds feature iconic franchises like Mario, Zelda, and Splatoon, with free updates adding more in the future.

This isn't your average alarm clock. The snooze button is a thing of the past. The alarm only stops when you fully leave your bed, rewarding you with a "brief victory fanfare" – a much-needed reward for those tough mornings. You can wave your hand to lower the volume, but prolonged bed-dwelling will only increase the intensity.

The magic behind the Alarmo lies in its radio wave sensor technology. This sensor measures your distance and movement speed without the need for cameras, prioritizing user privacy. It works even in dark rooms and through obstacles, as long as the radio waves can penetrate. Nintendo developer Tetsuya Akama highlighted this privacy-focused approach.

Early Access and Availability

Nintendo Switch Online members in the US and Canada have limited-time early access through the My Nintendo Store. The Alarmo will also be available in-person at the Nintendo New York store while supplies last.

A Peek into the Future: The Nintendo Switch Online Playtest

Separately, Nintendo has announced a Switch Online playtest, running from October 10th to 15th. Up to 10,000 participants will be chosen, with those outside Japan selected on a first-come, first-served basis. The playtest itself runs from October 23rd to November 5th, focusing on a new feature for the Nintendo Switch Online service.

To participate, you'll need:

• An active Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership (by October 9th, 3:00 PM PDT).
• To be at least 18 years old (by October 9th, 3:00 PM PDT).
• A Nintendo Account registered in one of the following countries: Japan, USA, UK, France, Germany, Italy, or Spain.