Apple and Nike announced they are developing the Nike+Ipod Sport Kit to allow runners to track data from their daily jog on their iPod Nano. Nike will offer sneakers that will allow a sensor to be placed in them. This sensor will then communicate wirelessly with a receiver that attaches to the Nano.
They are planning to allow users to track the usual stats – time, distance, pace and calories burned. Stats can then be viewed on the screen or played back audibly. Users can also upload them to a new website through iTunes and then keep track of them at nikeplus.com. In addition to the $100 Nike+ Air Zoom Moire sneakers that have this capability, the Sport Kit will run about $29.
Joggers that already carry a Nano for music may find this useful, but I think a watch and a table of calories burned will probably give them the same information. Doubtful they would purchase Nike sneakers just to add this capability, just put the receiver under your laces instead of in a specially designed pocket in the sole. Seems like just another idea that, while it works, is nothing groundbreaking. Not a whole lot of innovation involved here, guess you have to keep the designers busy somehow.
Posted by Jeff
