Nintendo Alarm Clock Debuts Ahead of Anticipated GTA VI Release

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

Forget your 2024 predictions – Nintendo has launched a gaming alarm clock! The Nintendo Sound Clock: Alarmo, priced at $99, uses game sounds to rouse you from slumber. Imagine waking to the sounds of Mario, Zelda, or Splatoon! More free soundtracks are on the way.

The Alarmo's unique feature? It only silences when you fully leave your bed, rewarding your morning triumph with a virtual fanfare. The clock uses a radio wave sensor to detect movement, prioritizing privacy over camera-based solutions. It's sensitive enough to pick up subtle movements, even in dark rooms or with obstacles. Developer Tetsuya Akama highlighted its privacy-focused design, emphasizing its use of radio waves instead of video recording.

Initially, US and Canadian Nintendo Switch Online members can purchase the Alarmo via the My Nintendo Store before its general release. The Nintendo New York store will also offer in-person purchases.

Beyond the Alarmo, Nintendo announced a Switch Online playtest.

Switch Online Playtest: Applications Open October 10th!

Applications for a new Switch Online feature playtest open October 10th (8:00 AM PT / 11:00 AM ET) and close October 15th (7:59 AM PT / 10:59 AM ET). Up to 10,000 participants will be selected, with non-Japanese applicants chosen on a first-come, first-served basis. 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).

Eligibility Requirements:

• Active Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership by October 9th, 2024, 3:00 PM PDT.
• At least 18 years old by October 9th, 2024, 3:00 PM PDT.
• Nintendo Account registered in Japan, the US, UK, France, Germany, Italy, or Spain.