Nintendo Alarmo Alarm Clock Releases Before GTA 6

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

Forget everything you thought you knew about alarm clocks. Nintendo has launched the "Nintendo Sound Clock: Alarmo," a $99 interactive alarm clock that uses game sounds to coax you out of bed. This wasn't on anyone's 2024 prediction list! Along with this unique product, a secretive Switch Online playtest is also underway.

The Alarmo: Wake Up in a Video Game World

Featuring sounds inspired by Mario, Zelda, Splatoon, and more, the Alarmo's alarm only stops when you fully leave your bed. Nintendo playfully describes this as a "brief victory fanfare" – a fitting reward for conquering the morning struggle. Additional soundtracks are promised as free updates.

The clock's interactivity is clever. You can wave your hand to temporarily quiet the alarm, but prolonged slumber will only increase its intensity. The technology behind it is a radio wave sensor that measures distance and movement speed without the privacy concerns of camera-based systems. As developer Tetsuya Akama explained, its radio wave technology allows it to function even in dark rooms and through obstacles.

Exclusive Early Access and Wider Availability

For a limited time, Nintendo Switch Online members in the US and Canada can purchase the Alarmo through the My Nintendo Store before its general release. The Nintendo New York store also offers in-person purchases while supplies last.

A Top-Secret Switch Online Playtest

Meanwhile, Nintendo has announced a Switch Online playtest, inviting up to 10,000 participants. Applications open October 10th (8:00 AM PT / 11:00 AM ET) and close October 15th (7:59 AM PT / 10:59 AM ET), or sooner if the participant limit is reached. The playtest itself runs from October 23rd to November 5th.

Eligibility requirements are as follows:

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

The mystery surrounding this playtest adds to the excitement. What new features are in store for Nintendo Switch Online subscribers? Only time will tell.