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Alpha Blog: CNET's gadget & tech news and opinions blogged by our editors
May 23, 2006, 12:50 PM PDT
Nike + iPod = fitness tech
Posted by: James Kim

Heavy hitters Apple and Nike are collaborating on a new iPod Nano accessory, the Nike+iPod Sport Kit. Available for $29 in "under 60 days," the kit includes a tiny adapter that connects to the underside of the Nano and wirelessly (proprietary 2.4GHz) collects data from a compatible pair of Nike+ running shoes. Data such as distance traveled, speed, and time elapsed will appear on the Nano's screen once the iPod firmware is updated, and you'll even get audio feedback through your headphones. At home, you'll be able to download your fitness data to your computer for further analysis.

We've seen fitness MP3 players before from the likes of Philips--some models in collaboration with Nike--and we've seen high-tech shoes, but this powerful partnership looks like an appealing combination for fitness freaks. Source: Nike press release

TalkBack
6 messages

Theres more than one flaw...

OK, from a marketing standpoint I can't believe that you would have to continue to buy more pedometers - I don't know how you would change/charge a battery, assuming there is one (could use the compression from your foot for the limitedpower it needs - see ecotype watches) but there must be something

My problems with it:
1) It says you can leave the pedometer in when your not using it - which is good cause it looks like you'll have a hole in the bottom of your shoe otherwise (hopefully they will be smart enough to have an insert I'll lose after a month)

2) Most armband holders I have seen cannot accept the additional piece that you need to attach to the bottom of the Nano and still work (see Apples loose fitting one for example, and mine has a velcro strap that uses that spot to hold the nano in place).

Good idea: I'll wait a few more months for somebody to copy it with a pedometer that doesn't require a $100 (msrp on the website) shoe with a hole in the bottom.
by psyonn (See profile) - June 30, 2006 6:48 AM PDT

Great idea, one serious apparent flaw

The pedometer battery, according to the fine print, is not replaceable and it sure doesn't look rechargeable either. So it's a non-eco-friendly land-fill filler unless I am wrong. Shame on Apple for not creating a better design. I really expect more environmentally friendly design from Apple. Plus I don't feel like throwing money at them for a new pedometer every time the battery wears out. Great idea, sucky implementation.
by resipsaloquitur (See profile) - June 21, 2006 1:21 PM PDT
5 out of 5 users found this comment helpful

Its about time!

We have seen many different attempts at combining mp3 players with
pedometers. Apple and Nike are just the two to do it. Sure, it may not appeal to
everyone, but for those hardcore runners/marathoners its perfect. I especially
like the audio updates on time/milage/pace so that you dont have to look at it!
by strummerville (See profile) - May 25, 2006 7:30 AM PDT

Not usefull at all

It's going to be a pain to have to check the screen of the ipod to get the information. Also, I personally don't like to run with an ipod, you lose concentration.
And what about the running shoes? No way I will replace all my running shoes for a Nike+.
by assisarmando (See profile) - May 25, 2006 6:19 AM PDT
0 out of 5 users found this comment helpful | 1 comment

Man and machine hand in hand...

This is a really cool concept and I'm tempted to go out and get a Nano (a great product in it's right) with a pair of Nikes to whip myself into shape this summer. I hope the software is really good.
by johnart (See profile) - May 25, 2006 4:57 AM PDT
5 out of 5 users found this comment helpful

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