Perfect wake up call for commuters

It could mean the end of those commuting nightmares.

Microsoft has revealed an intelligent alarm clock that can check traffic reports throughout the night.

Once users have entered their home and work addresses, the clock can work out exactly how long the journey will take, and wake up its owner at the correct time.

Although the clock is currently only a prototype, Microsoft claims it could be on shelves "within years". The company is already working with the Seattle traffic authorities.

The company has also revealed a Harry Potterstyle kitchen clock which can automatically track family members, telling parents where their children are at all times.

Children are given special satellite position tags to wear, and each hand of the clock can move between home, school, work and mobile settings depending on where the child is.

It is believed the clock was based on the Weasleys' family timepiece in the Harry Potter series, which told Mrs Weasley exactly where her offspring were at all times.