Nintendo patent hints that Alarmo clock could play real-time notifications from Switch 2 games

The Alarmo interactive alarm clock is one of the more unique Nintendo accessories. Still, once gamers are awake, it has limited functionality with Switch or Switch 2 games. Notifications could become much less predictable if the technology in a Nintendo patent becomes a reality. Players may see in-game events trigger related sounds on the clock.

Nintendo Patents Watch on Bluesky noticed an update to a 2021 filing in Japan. The patent was also published in the U.S. in 2023. New activity on the Japanese site suggests the described technology may be closer to becoming a reality.

Why would the Alarmo need a patent for notifications?

The English translation explains how traditional alarm clocks play programmed sounds. However, these scripted events run based on routines stored on the device itself. Nintendo proposes to link a clock like the Alarmo to other components for real-time notifications. Presumably, these other devices could include Switch or Switch 2 consoles, along with compatible titles.

Fans can imagine how a Switch 2 game like Mario Kart World would communicate with the Alarmo. After finishing in first place or notching another achievement, chimes could celebrate the feat. The sounds may also change to reflect seasonal events in Animal Crossing: New Horizons. Without Bluetooth, the clock would have to rely on its Wi-Fi connectivity.

A not so smart Nintendo sound clock

Currently, the charming Nintendo accessory focuses on waking up gamers with increasingly loud alarms. Owners can also download up to 60 scenes based on favorite Nintendo games. Otherwise, notifications only inform owners of system updates or the release of new content.

While critics accuse the Alarmo of being too basic for its high price, it does have some modern capabilities. Rudimentary sleep tracking gives a glimpse into how restless a gamer has been during the night. Nevertheless, it lacks coordination with smart apps, which would make it more comparable to the Amazon Echo Spot.

If the latest Nintendo patent is any indication, fans would have reason to move the Alarmo from bedrooms to living rooms.