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HTC Shift, others to see release at Dubai's GITEX show
With interest in the Shift -- HTC's foray into the wacky UMPC market -- coming to a rolling boil, we're glad to hear the company has finally shored up firm plans to get the sucker released. Vishnu Vardhan, HTC's exec for the Middle East and North Africa, says that the Shift will see an official release at Dubai's GITEX Technology Week starting September 8. That's not all, though; Vardhan says that four "brand new products" will see the light of day for the first time at GITEX, too, and if we had to lay money on it, we'd guess they're all Windows Mobile handsets. We'd previously heard that the Touch-like Nike might get called out in September, but the other three are anyone's guess.[Via the::unwired]
HTC's P5500 'Nike' slated for September launch?
Although the most recent hunch about a handset release did indeed prove true, we're not so sure about these HTC claims. DigiTimes has it that High Tech Computer is "expected to launch its second touchscreen-controlled smartphone supporting a 3.5G standard perhaps as soon as September," and while it didn't confirm, the site did insinuate that the mobile in question is the P5500 "Nike." Additionally, the rumors suggested that the phone will be "built using a CPU from Samsung and chipsets from Qualcomm," while also supporting W-CDMA. Of note, these same "sources" claimed that a device codenamed Vogue would be hitting North, Central, and South American shores, and we certainly can't find any room to argue with that.[Via TheUnwired]
iPod-controlling Nike Amp+ watch makes FCC appearance
Nike's iPod nano-controlling Amp+ watch has been making itself known since late last year, but it looks like it could finally be getting close to a release, with it recently making its debut on the FCC's website. That, of course, means that we can get a look at some less than flattering photos of it, along with the user manual and the usual test reports. One particularly interesting detail in that last item is that the watch apparently operates on the non-Bluetooth 2425MHz frequency, the very same frequency that the Nike+iPod Sport Kit uses. As further explained in the user manual, that means you'll be able to use the watch with your other Nike+ gear, with the watch giving you control over both your tunes and your workout. Click on through for a few more pics, including a look at the watch's innards.
Is HTC's P5500 "Nike" the Touch II?
We saw hints of HTC's "Nike" back in March, and the word now touts that set as the Touch II. Interestingly, it would seem that the yet unreleased -- and officially unannounced -- handset has morphed since our first meeting from a Sammy-like square-shaped number, to the egg inspired thing you see above. We're mostly unsure which version is most believable at this point, the new render certainly isn't showing off any TouchFLO features -- or even Windows Mobile 6 -- so color us unconvinced. Either way, the supposed hardware specs are the same, so we'll just have to sit back and wait til the aesthetic mystery gets solved by HTC.[Via Just Another Mobile Phone Blog]
HTC preps a few more models (hint: CDMA Touch!)
HTC's model naming convention has always been just a little tricky to commit to memory, and with this latest batch, it certainly ain't getting any easier. A couple of these we've heard about before -- namely the Nike, Kaiser, and Shangri-La -- but the rest are brand new to us and very exciting. First up, the S640 "Iris" is a CDMA rendition of the Excalibur and Cavalier, tossing in EV-DO rev. A and WiFi atop Windows Mobile 6 Standard. The "Vogue" is essentially a Touch (TouchFLO UI and all) with the same EV-DO rev. A guts as the Iris -- good news for Verizon and Sprint customers, we'd imagine. GSM users have reason to celebrate here too, though, in the form of the "Volans" and "Polaris." These two are upgrades to the Vox and Artemis, respectively, adding in much-needed 3G radios and faster processors. Finally, the P6550 "Sedna" appears to be some sort of industrial device with support for a credit card reader -- though with a 3 megapixel cam and 3G data, we wouldn't mind having one ourselves. Release dates are up in the air on most of these, but our money is on late '07.[Via The Boy Genius Report]Update: Crikey, the Shangri-La's slide reveals that the device -- HTC's entry into the UMPC fray -- runs both Vista and Windows Mobile 6. Sound vaguely familiar? [Thanks, Kevin]
1GB Nike shoe USB flash drive disregards trademark
While we've seen the swoosh used on questionably licensed apparel before, we're fairly certain that a one-off Japanese e-tailer isn't selling a svelte Nike USB flash drive before the company itself with due permissions in place. Nevertheless, users can (well, for the time being, at least) pick the 1GB training shoe USB drive for their Mac or PC, and while it doubles as a keychain or hangs on tight to your Kensington lock port, the real utility is stored beneath the toe. Admittedly, it doesn't look half bad (click through for more proof), but we'd recommend plopping down your ¥2,480 ($20) real quick like before the legal teams return on Monday.[Via EverythingUSB]
The 2006 Engadget Awards: Vote for Wearable Device of the Year
Now's your chance to cast your ballot for the 2006 Wearable Device of the Year! Our Engadget Awards nominees are listed below, and you've got until 11.59PM EST on Sunday, April 15th to file your vote. You can only vote once, so make it count, and may the best tech win! The nominees: Aliph Jawbone Bluetooth headset, HAL-5 robotic suit, Motorola / Oakley O ROKR, Nike + iPod, Shure E500PTH, and Sony Ericsson MBW-100 Bluetooth watch. %Poll-233%
Nike plans to make all its running shoes iPod-compatible
Not a lot of details just yet, but it looks like that limited selection of Nike+ shoes won't be alone in iPod compatibility in Nike's running lineup for long. Nike President and CEO Mark Parker said in a recent interview that Nike "plans to make all its running shoes compatible with its Nike+ technology by the end of the year." That's good news for the iPod kids looking for a wider selection of running shoes, and unwilling to go with one of those hacks, but we suppose a purist or three isn't going to like having their running shoe cut up in such a manner. Parker continued, saying "I won't get into specific dates or executions, but you can expect to see some of these new Nike concepts at retail this calendar year." Our guess is those shoes could be hitting 'round the time Nike Speed+ and friends start making this whole distance tracking thing ubiquitous in May.
All Nikes running shoes to be Nike + iPod compatible by year end
The Nike + iPod sports kit has been a success. Many runners love the idea of their iPod not only pumping out the sweet jams as they run, but also helping to track their progress as well as keep them motivated. Sadly, the number of shoes that officially support the Nike + iPod is rather limited (the kit includes a small sensor that is inserted into the running shoe). Lucky, Nike has recently announced that they plan to offer support for the Nike + iPod sport kit in all their running shoes by the end of the year.If only they would license the technology to other companies, then this would really take off (I'm a New Balance 992 man myself).[via iLounge]
HTC slides in with "Nike" P5500
We don't generally associate the terms "HTC" and "slider" -- at least in the traditional, numeric keypad sense -- but it seems the Taiwanese patron saint of all things Windows Mobile would like us to have a change of heart in that regard. The rumored HTC "Nike" (these code names of theirs keep getting weirder and weirder, we swear) should bow as the P5500 when it becomes available this fall in HTC-branded trim, rolling deep with a 400MHz Samsung core, 128MB ROM / 64MB RAM with microSD expansion, integrated FM tuner, Bluetooth 2.0, a 3 megapixel cam, and a 2.6-inch QVGA touchscreen. Best of all, it'll pack GPS and industrial-strength data via both 802.11b/g and HSDPA (no word on bands, though) -- and yes, that is Windows Mobile 6 Professional you see there, hence the touchscreen.[Via Navigadget]
Nike+iPod Serial-to-USB adapter tracks nearby runners
While not even the Nike+iPod was exempt from a bit of tinkering in its lifetime, this well-planned modification certainly takes the cake. In what's sure to drive privacy advocates unnecessarily mad, the crafty gurus over at Spark Fun Electronics have taken those widespread Nike+iPod tracking warnings and developed a product to exploit them, resulting in the Nike+iPod Serial-to-USB adapter. Deemed a "simple interface" to plug the Nike+iPod receiver into your USB port, the device then utilizes a VB program "to listen for all foot pods in range and display the raw data including foot pod IDs." Essentially, you can turn your PC into a spying machine for tracking nearby runners, but considering the range on this thing tops out around 60-feet, you're best option is to grab your laptop and camp out under the brush at a nearby running trail, but you didn't hear that from us. Of course, this creation could indeed be used for less devious matters, but regardless of your intentions, you'll be forced to buy at least ten units at $22.46 apiece, but we all know the truly voyeuristic will need a few dozen just to get started.[Via Podophile]
TrailRunner 1.3 with Garmin and Nike Support
When we last mentioned TrailRunner it was pitched primarily as a tool for making your iPod into a workout tool. The newly released version 1.3 expands its functionality considerably with support for importing routes from the recently released Garmin Training Center as well as workout information from the Nike + iPod kit. Now with TrailRunner you can plan and mark out your route in color on USGS (or other) topographical maps, download those maps to your iPod (as photos), record your actual run/bike ride/hike on your Garmin GPS (like the Forerunner, right), and re-upload that tracking information to TrailRunner for analysis and comparison with others. TrailRunner can also import and export KML files for use with Google Earth.As before, TrailRunner is a free download, but donations are requested.[Via MacMinute]
Life Fitness will merge exercise equipment and iPod
Forget the Nike + iPod kit, Life Fitness wants to make "iPod" synonymous with "workout." Earlier today they announced a new line of equipment that features built-in iPod integration. Once an iPod is docked, users can control playback and watch video via the machine's built-in LCD. Also, headphones can be plugged directly into the equipment. You can expect to see these in stores towards the end of March.So now you can't blame the weather for canceling your workout. Thanks a lot, Life Fitness.
NBA Street-branded Air Jordans
EA and Nike have teamed up to do the limited-edition Air Jordan thing. 100 pairs of these decidedly un-street, Street-branded kicks will be manufactured -- 60 pairs apparently set aside for an online contest next week.Part of the Jordan "B'Loyal" line, the shoes were designed by EA in black nubuck leather with blue stitching. Note the speckled mid-sole accent. Ooohhh... Awww...%Gallery-1604%
Nike, Apple in suit over iPod sport kit
Hey, it's Monday! Let's sue Apple!PhatRat Technology is the latest company to bring a suit against Apple, claiming that the Nike+ Sport Kit uses their technology (in part). PhatRat makes wireless performance products for athletes, including the AirRat, which lets snowboarders, BMX riders, etc., record airtime via devices in their shoes. It's this data collection and transmission via footwear that has PhatRat up in arms.We have no information on the case, of course, but it does seem like suing Apple is the fashionable thing to do lately. We'll see how this plays out.
Nike+ website adds 'Map it' feature
Legions of iPod nano toting runners track their workouts using the Nike+ website. I am not one of them (though I am getting in shape, sadly running has never been attractive to me), however, I still think the website is neat. Nike has just added a cool new feature to the Nike+ website: 'Map it.' Map It allows you to map your run using Google Maps. You can choose to make these maps public, or to keep them private (I can imagine some people might not want the world to know where they are running). You can then associate past, or future, runs with this new map to keep track of how you are doing. Pretty neat, though it would be even better if you could map your routes automatically using GPS. But you know what they say, baby steps (ha!).Thanks, Bob.
Nike kicks out Performance Hatphones for your iPod nano
If you poor souls have really been running around with one of the iSoundCap contraptions on your dome in order to bring your iPod a bit closer to your skull, you've finally got a somewhat stylish alternative. Seeing a huge opportunity, Nike has jumped into the strap-your-DAP-on-your-head game with its Performance Hatphones. No, there's no Bluetooth connectivity or any other connection to a mobile handset, but we're assuming Nike is just replacing "ear" with "hat" and calling it a day. Anyways, the fleece caps are designed to keep your noggin toasty while providing a "fully functional iPod nano click wheel" on the outer rim -- you know, so you appear to be calling yourself "loco" while scrolling from Abba to Zebrahead. So if you're looking for the perfect winter companion to your C.O.R.E. Backpack iD (or just really love the swoosh), you can pick one of these up for yourself or the opposite sex in a variety of colors for $60 a pop.[Via Slashgear]
Transformers bust out of Nike Free shoes
Just a few days ago, Transformers aficionados were likely elated to see the Optimus Prime iPod speaker dock, and now we've got one more option for you to add to your collection. Not too long after learning a few secretive details about the Nike Speed+ watch, now it seems that Convoy and Megatron are busting out of a pair of Nike Free 7.0 kicks, ready to rock and lace up their enemie. As the first two members of the Transformers Sports Label series, these items are actually half scale renditions of life-sized footwear, measuring around 6-inches in length but reportedly featuring all the same qualities of an actual Nike shoe. Interestingly, the two bots even rock a diminutive pair of Nike Free shoes themselves, but there's no word on if wearing these things actually gives you similar powers. Nevertheless, the inseparable set should start shipping by May, and while the standard edition will set you back $58.99, you might as well spring for the "Collector's Grade" for an extra four bucks.[Thanks, Yu-Ming]
Nike + iPod + Google Maps = Runometer
Here's something I've been wishing the Nikeplus.com site to implement itself: integration with Google Maps. Not ones to wait around for giant companies to switch on niche features, a small software company by the name of Gordian Labs has created the Runometer, a not-quite-even-beta mashup that lets you view and compare your Nike+ running data, as well as plot out your runs on Google Maps. By providing software and/or instructions for Mac OS X, Windows and even Linux, Nike+ owners can upload their run data, sketches of their routes or even GPS data for the ultimate in geek running goodness. A handy how-to guide is provided to help you get on your feet, but you'd better get moving - Runometer users have already ran over 1000 miles and plotted 284 routes![via Engadget]
Runometer maps your Nike+iPod data to running routes
We know many of you (including yours truly) recently took up running just to bask in that sweaty gadgety goodness of the Nike+iPod collaboration. Sure, the out-of-the-box experience is good, but wouldn't it be nice to have more control over your run data? The folks at Gordian Labs think so and built the Runometer site for that purpose. They provide all the details you'll need to extract and upload your run data from the bowels of the iPod. Once uploaded, you can manage and share your runs with others and even map the data to your running routes uploaded from GPS data or from tracings done in Google Maps. It's not as polished as the Nike+ site but as they say, the site is "not even in Beta" yet. Of course, if you choose to upload your data to the site we can't guarantee it won't end up in the hands of the government or other aliens looking to track your whereabouts. But if you're feeling like sticking it to the man (however you may define that) then go ahead, it don't cost nothin' but your time. [Via Hack A Day]
