Nintendo Alarm's 'Alarmo' Precedes GTA 6 Launch

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

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

The Nintendo Sound Clock: Alarmo

Free Sound Updates on the Horizon!

Priced at $99, the Alarmo boasts interactive alarm features. Nintendo describes it as an alarm clock that "responds to your body's movement with game sounds," creating a unique wake-up experience. The initial launch features sounds from popular franchises like Mario, Zelda, and Splatoon, with free updates promised in the future.

The Alarmo's functionality is straightforward: it only silences when you fully leave your bed, which Nintendo playfully refers to as a "brief victory fanfare." Waving your hand mutes the alarm temporarily, but prolonged bed-dwelling results in an escalating alarm volume.

Utilizing a "radio wave sensor," the Alarmo measures distance and movement speed without the need for video recording, prioritizing user privacy. Nintendo developer Tetsuya Akama highlighted the sensor's ability to detect subtle movements even through obstacles, thanks to radio wave technology.

Exclusive early access is available to Nintendo Switch Online members in the US and Canada via the My Nintendo Store. The Nintendo New York store also offers in-person purchases while supplies last.

The Enigmatic Switch Online Playtest

Application Window: October 10th - 15th!

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. Up to 10,000 participants will be selected; those outside Japan are chosen on a first-come, first-served basis. The playtest itself runs from October 23rd to November 5th.

Eligibility requirements include:

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