Nintendo's Surprise: An Interactive Alarm Clock and a Mysterious Switch Online Playtest
A Nintendo interactive alarm clock? It's a surprising addition to 2024's tech landscape! Along with the newly unveiled Nintendo Sound Clock: Alarmo, Nintendo has also launched a secretive Switch Online playtest.
The Nintendo Sound Clock: Alarmo – Wake Up in a Game World
Free Alarm Sound Updates on the Way!
Priced at $99, the "Nintendo Sound Clock: Alarmo" uses game sounds to rouse you from slumber. Nintendo boasts that it makes you feel like you're waking up inside your favorite game. Featuring alarm sounds from iconic franchises like Mario, Zelda, and Splatoon, with free updates promised, the Alarmo offers a unique wake-up experience.
The alarm's interactive element hinges on getting you out of bed. It won't stop until you do, treating your rise and shine as a "brief victory fanfare." While you can temporarily quiet the alarm by waving your hand in front of it, prolonged bed-dwelling only intensifies the sound.
Setup is straightforward: choose a game theme, select a scene, set your alarm time, and let the Alarmo's interactivity take over.
Utilizing a radio wave sensor, the Alarmo measures your distance and movement speed without the need for video recording, prioritizing user privacy. Nintendo developer Tetsuya Akama highlights the sensor's sensitivity to subtle movements and its ability to function in dark rooms and around obstacles.
Early Access and Retail 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 Sneak Peek at the Switch Online Playtest
Applications Open October 10!
Separately, Nintendo 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. The playtest focuses on a new feature for the Nintendo Switch Online service.
Up to 10,000 participants will be selected, with international participants (outside Japan) chosen on a first-come, first-served basis. The application period may end early if the participant limit is reached. Eligibility requires:
- An active Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership (as of October 9th, 2024, 3:00 PM PDT).
- Age 18 or older (as of October 9th, 2024, 3:00 PM PDT).
- A Nintendo Account registered in Japan, the USA, UK, France, Germany, Italy, or Spain.
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.
