Nintendo's Smart Clock, Alarmo, To No Longer Require Switch Online Subscription Come March

Nintendo is expanding the availability of its smart clock, Alarmo, allowing all users to purchase the device starting in March. Previously, the clock was exclusive to Nintendo Switch Online subscribers, but the company announced today that it will now be available to a wider audience.

The Alarmo clock, which offers unique features and incorporates iconic Nintendo game sounds, will be available for purchase through Nintendo's website and select retailers, no longer requiring a Switch Online subscription. This marks a major shift for the device, which had initially been a perk for subscribers only.

Nintendo Makes Alarmo Available For All to Buy Starting March

Nintendo of America made the announcement earlier today via a post on X, revealing that Alarmo will no longer be limited to Switch Online members in the U.S. The clock, however, will only be available while supplies last.

When Alarmo was first introduced, it made waves as an unexpected product from Nintendo, a company primarily known for its gaming consoles and software. The clock features sounds from Nintendo's most beloved franchises, including "Super Mario" and "The Legend of Zelda."

According to CNET, while Alarmo's public release was a surprise, it wasn't the announcement fans had been eagerly awaiting. Many had hoped for news about the next-generation Nintendo Switch 2, but instead, the company opted to unveil the availability of Alarmo. While details on the Switch 2 remain scarce, Nintendo has confirmed that an announcement regarding the successor console is expected soon.

Nintendo Switch Online Subscription No Longer Required

Alarmo's new accessibility opens it up to a wider audience, including fans who are not subscribed to Nintendo Switch Online but still enjoy Nintendo's classic games. The clock allows users to wake up to sounds from iconic games like "Super Mario" and "The Legend of Zelda," making it a nostalgic addition to any fan's collection.

Those who previously didn't renew their Switch Online subscription, or who never subscribed, can now purchase the clock from Nintendo or selected retailers.

Nintendo Switch 2 News Still Missing

Despite the excitement surrounding Alarmo's public release, the most anticipated announcement from Nintendo is still the Switch 2. Fans have been eagerly awaiting details about the next-generation console, with many expecting an official announcement before March 2025.

Though Nintendo has confirmed that the Switch 2 will be announced later this year and will support backward compatibility for original Switch games, little else is known about the console. Leakers and speculators have been circulating rumors about potential upgrades, including a revamped chipset, redesigned Joy-Cons, larger screens, and augmented reality features, but Nintendo has kept quiet about any specifics.

As the gaming community waits for official word on the Switch 2, Nintendo's decision to expand the availability of Alarmo offers a small but notable development for fans, especially those who had been hoping for more information on the company's upcoming console.