Nike+iPod Sport Kit hits the road

Nike and Apple Computer launched the Nike+iPod Sport Kit on Thursday with a run from the Niketown store in Los Angeles. The $29 kit consists of a wireless sensor that fits into Nike+ Air Zoom Moire sneakers, and a small white receiver that plugs into an iPod Nano. The Nike/iPod connection lets the iPod track distance, time, pace and calories burned. Athletes create the exercise program they want, and each time the iPod Nano is synced, the data stored from the kit is noted and charted. Athletes can also choose to have verbal updates of their progress whispered into their ears as they run.

Through Nikeplus, athletes can register to participate in virtual races, and have their progress charted against others in the U.S. iTunes is also featuring exercise playlists from famous athletes, as well as inspirational podcasts. Other Nike+ Trial Runs from various locations in the U.S. will be held over the next couple of weeks to promote the new gadget. In addition to the sneakers, Nike is selling armbands and other clothing containing iPod compartments. The Nike/Apple partnership was first announced in May at a New York event featuring cyclist Lance Armstrong.

[john55440]

Pedometers Already Do That...

Pedometers have been doing that kind of thing for many years. The simple New Lifestyles Digi-Walker pedometer I use reports steps, distance, and calories burned. Other models have more advanced functions.

[Flytrap]

Ah yes, but...

... does it play music while you are doing that? does it allow you to enter into virtual races with your peers? and finally is it cool? Just as I wouldn't be caught jogging without my $90 Nike shorts and $85 Gucci top, I wouldn't want to be seen jogging with "just a Pedometer" that does not do all that cool stuff the Nike and iPod do.

If you truely believe that the Pedometer is even a close comparison, then you are proberbly one of those that justify their use of anything but an iPod on the basis that you are getting more value for money with your current portable media player.

It aint about features or function. Its all about coolness and form... function can follow form in this instance.

[ballssalty]

Do you get a free toaster too?

I'm so sick of the freakin' iPod already! What about an iPod Fridge or shower curtain.

[DraconumPB]

Amen!

Just wait for the iPod Mini: Micro, a 250GB player the size of a thumbnail with such advanced DRM that it deletes your songs after listening to them.

[Jared Plank]

does it play music??

your pedometer, does it play music too??

[DraconumPB]

No but...

... I'd bet most pedometers are cheaper than equipment licensed by both Apple AND Nike, both companies known for having top of the line but ridiculously priced products.

[john55440]

does it play music??

>your pedometer, does it play music too??<

When I go walking in the local park reserve, my music is the singing birds and the sounds of trees and grasses blowing in the wind.

iPod users should try connecting to the real world sometime. :-)