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 – A Wake-Up Call from the Game World
Priced at $99, the Alarmo uses game sounds to rouse you from slumber. Nintendo promises a truly immersive experience, making you feel like you're waking up inside your favorite game. Launch sounds draw inspiration from titles like Mario, Zelda, and Splatoon, with free updates adding more in the future.
The Alarmo's interactive element hinges on its ability to detect when you've left the bed. Waving your hand quiets the alarm temporarily, but prolonged bed-dwelling will only increase its intensity. It's a playful challenge to get out of bed!
Setting the alarm involves choosing a game, selecting a scene, and setting the time. The Alarmo's unique radio wave sensor technology tracks your distance and movement speed without the privacy concerns of camera-based systems.
Nintendo developer Tetsuya Akama explains, "The key feature is its ability to detect subtle movements. Unlike cameras, it doesn't record video, offering enhanced privacy. Its radio wave technology allows for use in dark rooms and detection even with obstacles."
Early Access for Nintendo Switch Online Members
US and Canadian Nintendo Switch Online members can purchase the Alarmo exclusively online via the My Nintendo Store for a limited time before its general release. The Nintendo New York store will also offer in-person purchases at launch.
A Sneak Peek at the Future: Nintendo Switch Online Playtest
Applications for a Switch Online playtest are open from October 10th, 8:00 AM PT / 11:00 AM ET to October 15th, 7:59 AM PT / 10:59 AM ET. This playtest focuses on a new feature for the Nintendo Switch Online service.
Up to 10,000 participants will be selected, with those outside Japan 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 (as of October 9th, 2024, 3:00 PM PDT).
- At least 18 years of age (as of October 9th, 2024, 3:00 PM PDT).
- Nintendo Account registered in Japan, the USA, UK, France, Germany, Italy, or Spain.
