How to use the online alarm clock
Between the commute and the first coffee, 8:16 am is often the last checkpoint before the day properly starts. This tool sets a browser alarm for 8:16 am that rings through your device's speakers, handy for a desk you're already sitting at or a laptop open on the kitchen bench.
After picking a tone, press Start and leave the page open. It doesn't need an internet connection once it's running, but it does need the tab itself to stay open, so avoid closing the browser or letting the device fall asleep before the time is reached.
Compared to a phone, this alarm has one job and nothing else competing for attention — no messages, no app switching. It's free and doesn't ask for sign-up, but it only works while the tab is open and the device stays awake, so it suits daytime use at a desk better than an overnight bedroom alarm. On a 24-hour clock 8:16 am is written 08:16, and spoken aloud it's sixteen minutes past eight in the morning. Written the Australian way that's 8.16 am, and typed in a hurry it's often 8:16am. If you need it loud, turn the system volume up before you start: the alarm plays at whatever the device is set to.
Common questions
Can I use this on my phone instead of a laptop?
Yes, it works in a mobile browser the same way, but phones are more likely to lock the screen or sleep, which can stop the alarm from ringing. A laptop or desktop tends to be more reliable for this.
Can I set more than one alarm at a time?
This page is built around a single alarm at a time. For multiple alarms, open a separate tab for each one and set a different time in each, keeping every tab open until it's rung.
Why use a browser alarm instead of my phone's built-in one?
Mainly for reliability against silent mode, do-not-disturb, or a phone left charging out of earshot. It's a useful backup or a desk-based alternative, though it depends on this tab staying open rather than running in the background of your phone.
Is there a cost to use this?
No, it's free, with no sign-up and no limit on how many times you set it. It just needs the tab left open until the time you've chosen arrives.