The motion detectors reportedly work with various bed sizes, from twin to king. As users change positions, the watch screen responds by moving on-screen characters from left to right and playing sound effects from Nintendo video games based on different selectable themes.
A photo of Nintendo Sound Clock Alarm.
A photo of Nintendo Sound Clock Alarm. Credit: Nintendo
The Verge's Chris Welch reviewed the new device at Nintendo's New York City store shortly after its announcement, noting that setting Alarm involves a lengthy process of configuring its motion detection features. The setup cannot be skipped and may be challenging for younger users. The watch prompts users to enter the date, time, and bed-related information to calibrate its sensors properly. Still, Welch described “small, thoughtful Nintendo touches throughout the experience.”
Themes and sounds
Beyond motion tracking, the watch has a few other tricks up its sleeve. Its screen brightness automatically adjusts based on ambient light levels and users can control Alarm via buttons on the top, including a large dial for navigation and selection.
The device's full-color rectangular screen shows the time and 35 different scenes featuring animated Nintendo characters from games like the one mentioned above. super mario odyssey, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wildand Splatoon 3as well as Pikmin 4 and Ring-shaped adventure.
Alarm also offers sleep sounds to help users fall asleep. Nintendo plans to release additional downloadable sounds and themes for the device in the future using its built-in Wi-Fi capabilities, which can be accessed after linking a Nintendo Account. Nintendo's website mentions upcoming themes for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Animal Crossing: New Horizons In particular.
Starting today, Nintendo Online members can order an Alarm online and, as mentioned above, Nintendo says the watch will be available through other retailers in January 2025.