Nintendo's Surprise: An Interactive Alarm Clock and a Mysterious Switch Online Playtest
Forget your 2024 predictions; Nintendo has launched a surprisingly innovative interactive alarm clock! The Nintendo Sound Clock: Alarmo, priced at $99, uses game sounds to rouse you from slumber. The alarm clock responds to your movements, creating a fun, game-like wake-up experience featuring sounds from popular titles like Mario, Zelda, and Splatoon. Additional soundtracks will be released as free updates.
The Alarmo's unique selling point is its interactive nature. It won't stop until you fully leave your bed, rewarding your effort with a "victory fanfare." While you can temporarily quiet the alarm by waving your hand, prolonged slumber will only increase its intensity. The device employs a radio wave sensor to detect movement, prioritizing privacy over camera-based solutions. This allows for detection even in dark rooms or with obstacles, as confirmed by Nintendo developer Tetsuya Akama.
Exclusively for a limited time, Nintendo Switch Online members in the US and Canada can purchase the Alarmo through the My Nintendo Store. Additionally, the Nintendo New York store offers in-person purchases while supplies last.
Beyond the Alarmo, Nintendo has announced a Switch Online playtest, accepting applications from October 10th to 15th. This test, focusing on a new feature for the Nintendo Switch Online service, will select up to 10,000 participants. International participation is on a first-come, first-served basis, with applicants needing an active Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership, to be at least 18 years old, and to have a Nintendo Account registered in one of seven specified countries (Japan, USA, UK, France, Germany, Italy, or Spain). The playtest itself will run from October 23rd to November 5th.
