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Slew of new Nike+ gear leaked
Nike's not doing the best of jobs keeping a lid on their expanding Nike+ CE line (get it, Jobs? Nevermind.), which is why we've got some leaked shots of upcoming gear, including the Nike Speed+ Watch Kit (which displays distance, pace, elapsted time, and calories), and three iPod controlling watch systems including the Amp+, and the so-similar-they-may-be-the-same-product Flight+ and Aero+ (which features voice feedback and a rocking bezel for music control). All are launching launching May 1st for varying prices: $130 (Speed Watch and Aero+) and $80 (Amp+).%Gallery-1270%
Nike Speed+ watch details leaked
There's nothing official yet, but a fast-acting visitor to Nike's just-launched Nike Store Europe website looks to have gotten the scoop on the company's latest exercise-related gadget, snapping the above screenshot of the product page for the hereto unheard of Nike Speed+ watch. Not surprisingly, the page was taken down soon after, although the screenshot we're left with manages to capture most of the key details. Basically taking the place of the iPod in the Nike+iPod equation, the watch will wirelessly receive distance, pace, and other data from the Nike+ sensor on your shoe and display it on its backlit LCD screen, also giving you the option to offload that data for uploading to the nikeplus.com website. In another sure sign that the page wasn't quite ready for prime time, it unfortunately doesn't give any indication of price or availability, although from the looks of it, it would seem that it's coming sooner rather than later.
BusinessWeek gives Nike+iPod thumbs up
In a review of Nike+iPod today, Mike Vella of BusinessWeek gives the combination a good review saying the unit is easy-to-use and accurate, despite it's lack of a heart rate monitor. Me, I'm not in love with the idea of a glorified pedometer. If you can't use it on a bike and it assumes your strides are consistent and it doesn't work with my 5G Video iPod, it's not the right equipment for me. I'm still waiting for something more along the lines of an iPod+Garmin combo with real maps, real GPS, and all. With a nice virtual personal trainer and customizable workouts. That's not too much to ask for, is it? Especially with, say, an iPhone with built-in GPS so that there's nothing to stick into or onto your shoes. Besides, I prefer New Balance which I could use with the optional Marware shoe adapter.
Class action lawsuits filed against Apple
Just when you think Apple's financial woes have begun to recede, Forbes.com alerts us to a slew of recently filed class action lawsuits that all have the big fruit in their sights. First up is yet another complaint alleging that Apple has created a monopoly by tying iTS purchases to the iPod and only the iPod. Even though suits like this have come and gone, the court has interestingly denied Apple's motion to dismiss. Next in line is a suit over the MacBook's iBook G4's "abnormally high rate" of logic board failure. This suit was filed Nov. 7th, and Apple still has time to respond. A third suit is coming from PhatRat Technology LLC, who is calling patent infringement on the Nike+iPod product. A response from Apple is still pending here as well. Last (though possibly not least?) is a securities class action suit against the company and "certain current and former officers and directors" over all this backdated stock option grant business. That's about everything Forbes has on the Apple lawsuit list for now. Think it's still worth it to wish Apple a happy new year?
Found Footage: New Nike+ commercial
Nike has a new commercial out advertising the Nike+ iPod sports kit. It features a young man getting off a couch, iPod in hand, to go running. He runs on a treadmill whilst he scenery changes in the background. But why are you reading about the commercial, just go watch it![via iLounge]
Nike profits driven by iPod sports kit
The Nike+iPod kit has proven to be a huge win for Nike's bottom line. Their profits are up this year with higher than expected earnings and their stock has risen to its highest price in a decade. The secret? Apparently it's Nike's iPod kit, at least in part. Bloomberg reports that "Chief Executive Officer Mark Parker boosted sales with the Nike Plus shoe that works with an iPod and signature footwear from basketball star LeBron James." Looking at the numbers, Nike's Q2 net income rose to $325.6 million compared to $301.1 million a year earlier. Revenue was up 10%, from $3.47 billion to $3.82 billion. That's a lot of sneakers. Almost makes me want to go out running.
Avoid the Nike/iPod sports kit if you're a secret agent
According to Wired News, the iPod + the Nike sports kit == Big Trouble if you're a spy. A University of Washington reports that "tech-savvy stalkers, thieves and corporations" can possibly track your movements when using the Nike/iPod kit. The iPod/Nike mashup allows you to track your training progress with a special pair of Nike sneakers that transmits workout data to your iPod nano. The RFID device in the shoes essentially turns your sneakers into a portable radio station, transmitting your location as well as your jogging stats. The signal can be picked up up to 60 feet away and can apparently be tracked by any Nike+iPod receiver. Since your sneaks give out a unique ID, your signal can be differentiated from other people and you alone can be targeted for surveillance. In other news, fluoridated water allows mind control of the masses.
Radio on Nike+iPod Sport Kit could be used to track you
Nearly every time someone comes out with a new wireless gadget, leave it to the security-nistas to spoil all the fun. Wired News is reporting that the Nike+iPod Sport Kit could be used to track runners, according to Scott Saponas, a University of Washington computer science graduate student, and a few university colleagues. These researchers have set up a pretty frightening scenario describing how a geeky stalker could set up a tiny computer to monitor the Nike+iPod system when it passes by a certain point. The basic issue is that apparently the Nike+iPod system has a read range of 60 feet due to its internal power source, compared to the 10-inch range of typical RFID tags found in clothing or credit cards. The team has suggested a solution to the problem, which would be to uniquely pair one sensor to one reader. That seems reasonable to us, but until then, we'll start randomizing our jogging route just to really screw with these dudes. [Via Wired News, thanks Christopher G.]
Nike unveils iPod-controlling C.O.R.E. Backpack iD
We're sure you're well aware of Nike and Apple's mutual partnership (or two) by now, and this time Nike's C.O.R.E. Backpack iD is getting some familiar iPod lovin' with a built-in remote keypad system and dock connector interface. While we're fairly certain you already own at least one piece of apparel with electrostatic iPod controls on them, they'll eventually end up in the wash (we hope), leaving you liaison-less for the day. With Nike's new pack, your books, laptop, Cheetos stash, and little white (or colorful) Apple are all taken care of on a daily basis. Nike allows you to fully customize the backpack, and aside from choosing your alma mater's colors, the "Nike Flow" backpanel, or the sweet "security zippers," you can opt to have the iPod controls built straight into the strap. Per usual, you can dictate the volume, track, and play / pause / stop functions while on the go, and it even boasts a handy headphone port as well as a storage compartment for when you ditch the cans and actually pay attention in class. The C.O.R.E. Backpack iD starts at just $55, but the oh-so-tempting iPod interface bumps the price up to $105, but it's still a bit cheaper than your alternatives.[Via iLounge]
Nike Amp+ wireless iPod remote spotted
If that Nike + iPod concoction hasn't whipped you into shape yet with all of its sporty goodness, you might want to run and hide (well, maybe not run) from this upcoming Nike Amp+ wrist-mounted remote, which could very well prove irresistible. The fancy little thing, which has yet to be officially announced by either Apple or Nike, but somehow sneaked its way into the 2007 Men's Health Tech Guide, features music controls and LED-illuminated info readout to track your run. It supposedly syncs up with the mother-Pod via Bluetooth -- though we'd be surprised if they're changing out the current dongle that powers the Nike + iPod setup, so perhaps this is interoperable with that non-standard frequency. No word on exactly when we should be seeing this thing in stores, but it should be hitting for around $80 when it does.[Via TUAW; thanks Evan]
Nike Amp+
Don't you love it when as yet unreleased products show up on Gift Guides? The Nike Amp+ was included on Men's Health's 2007 Tech Guide (there isn't a permalink, but it is listed under Media Players). What? You haven't heard of the Nike Amp+? Well, there is good reason for that, it hasn't been released yet.The Nike Amp+ is a wrist band which communicates with your iPod (with Bluetooth, I assume) so that you can start, stop, and browse your tunes. That's not all! It also talks to the Nike+iPod Sport Kit, so you can access information about your run without having to take out your iPod.I'm not a runner, but this is cool enough that I might just pick one up anyway. No details about pricing or availability are known at this time.Thanks, Barry.
Nike CORE Audio iPod Backpack
Nike's C.O.R.E. Audio iPod Backpack won't track your workout data like the Nike + sport kit, but it does have a "padded media pocket" with a dock connector for iPod stowage and an integrated remote control keypad on the strap that allows you to conveniently control your music (play/pause, change tracks and volume). Apparently it's been available in Europe for a month or so, but there's no sign of it on the US Nike website yet - although a Google search did reveal it being sold by many online retailers selling it for $85-$100 USD. At roughly half the current price of the Burton Amp iPod Backpack (which was even more when it was introduced), that seems like a good deal. Personally, I found the Burton backpack to be uncomfortable for every-day use when toting lots of gear, so I might give the Nike Core Audio version a try.The backpack features ergo-friendly straps, a padded laptop compartment and a convenient earbud storage pouch. The built-in 30-pin dock connector is compatible with 4th generation iPods, the iPod mini, iPod nano, iPod photo and iPod with video. iPod-fun.de has a few more pics if you're interested.[via MobileWhack]
Sony, Nintendo get official, unofficial sneakers
While neither can match the simple geek elegance of street artist Invader's Space Invader-themed kicks, Nintendo and Sony fanboys now have some sneakers of their own to covet, although both look to be harder to get your hands on than a Wii or PS3. Sony's the only one of the two to get official with its sneaks, partnering with Nike for some PlayStation 3-themed footwear (at least that's what they're sayin' -- from the looks of it, Nike may have just taken the opportunity to unload some rejected designs.) Only 24 pairs of the PS3 sneaks were made, with most no doubt spoken for by now. You won't fare any better with the Nintendo shoes, however; these stylish but apparently non-functional kicks being strictly one of a kind, created by an talented sneaker artist for a recent Sneakerpimps event in Baltimore.Read - Sole Collector, "First Look at PlayStation 3 Kicks" [Via Hypebeast]Read - Format Magazine, "Sneakerpimps Customs" [Via DS Fanboy]
MacBook Pro and Nike + iPod Sport Kit compete for Time magazine's Gadget of the Year
It's that time of the year for Time's "Gadget of the Year" and Apple has two strong contenders in the running (no pun intended), out of the eight nominees. The MacBook Pro and the Nike + iPod Sport Kit trail behind the Nintendo DS Lite for first place right now - but your votes could put them over the top! Show off your Apple pride and go vote for your favorite.I dig the MacBook Pro, of course, but I'm voting for the Nike + iPod Sport Kit, despite not being a runner. I just think it's an smart bit of technology. Even dogs can use it! Have you ever seen a dog try to use Treo 700w or use a Sanyo HD1 handycam? I didn't think so. You need thumbs for that. Dogs don't have thumbs. Duh.Thanks, Marcia and Sam!
Shoe Pouch - use your Nike+ kit with any shoe
Since I'm sure plenty of you will be running (not walking) to pick up a spankin' new MacBook Pro, I figured you could use another accessory option for using your Nike+iPod kit with non-Nike+ shoes. iLounge picked up on the Shoe Pouch from Grantwood Technology, a small $6 pouch for the Nike+ sensor along the lines of Marware's Sportsuit Sensor+ for iPod nano. Readers have mentioned using all sorts of tricks, hacks and other forms jury-rigging to get the job done, but this is another simple and cheap alternative to spending less time modding your shoes and more time running with them.
Look at your workout data without using the Nike Plus website
Matt is a big fan of the Nike + iPod kit, as it would seem more people who use it are. He does have on problem with it, though. There is not an easy way to share your running data with others. Sure, the Nike Plus website graphs your progress, and you can compete with other runners, but you can't link to your progress from an outside source, or even display that info on your blog.Knowing that Apple has a fondness for storing data in XML, Matt went poking around his iPod and found that all the workout infomation is stored in iPod/iPod_Control/Device/Trainer/Workouts/Empeds/{Sensor ID}, where the Sensor ID is unique. Keep in mind that this folder is hidden, so if you just mount your iPod as a harddisc you won't see it, but yu can get to it using the Terminal. Matt even went so far as to whip up a widget that gets the info from the XML file and posts it to a temporary file on his webserver.[via Not Myself]
Introducing Nike+ Group Goals: donate your miles, run for a cause
Boy, this Nike+ thing just keeps getting cooler and cooler. I just received an email from Nike introducing a new Nike+ Group Goals program through which Nike will donate $1 to a cause for every mile participants run (using the Nike+iPod kit, of course). It appears that causes will rotate periodically, as this month they're featuring three: the Lance Armstrong Foundation and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, as well as Cubs and White Sox charities.This is a stellar idea, and call me what you have to, but I'm genuinely inspired to finish this post and lace up my shoes; this is such a great way to get people even more motivated. I'm excited to see what other charities and groups hop on board with one of the most arguably unique and active iPod accessories to date.
Nike + iPod: 1 million miles and counting
To say that the Nike + iPod sports kit has been a hit would be something of an understatement. His Steveness told us on Sept. 12th that 450,000 of the kits had been sold in just 90 days, but I wondered if anyone was actually using them. It turns out that lots of folks are, and Nike has just announced that runners have logged over 1 million miles on nikeplus.com, Nike's website that tracks your progress and lets you compete with friends. That's enough miles to circle the globe 40 times, and that is in just 10 weeks.Nike also states that they will be expanding their Nike + iPod offerings, so runners keep those credit cards handy.
Marware announces universal Nike + iPod sensor pouch
Aside from all the pioneering DIYers out there, we've already found one retail accessory from Nike themselves that lets you use the Nike + iPod kit with any shoe, but now Marware has joined the race with their Sportsuit Sensor+ (looks like the '+' is becoming a hot new accessory to accessory names). This tiny pouch is form-fitted for the sensor and can attach to any shoe's laces via velcro. As icing on the cake, the pouch also has room to store the wireless receiver when not in use, and it protects the sensor "from all the elements that serious runners encounter." I guess they could've said 'it's weatherproof,' but that doesn't have the same flair.The Sportsuit Sensor+ is a mere $10 and is available for pre-order now.[via iLounge]
A week with the Nike + iPod Sports Kit
The kit's been out for a while, and I have been running with my own (with a cheap shoe wallet; not Nike's shoes) for about a week now, so I figured I would post a brief review and some thoughts about one of the most unique (and arguably active) iPod accessories to date.In a nutshell - it's nice. Very nice. Setting up and configuring the kit was a snap, especially for a couple of typically complex and finicky gadgets like these (cmon, how many times has a wifi connection had an attitude with you?). For those waiting for more confirmation as to whether you need Nike's specialized shoes for this kit to work: you don't. I, like many others already, purchased one of those $8 Nike Run Shoe Wallets we blogged, tossed the sensor inside (with a couple pieces of kleenex to make sure it doesn't bounce around) and attached it to the top of my generic running shoes. I configured my kit by both running and walking a .25 mile distance, and measured my route with the gmap pedometer to make sure the sensor was accurate.Now a lot of users are (understandably) frustrated with Apple and Nike for designing the kit to only work with the iPod nano. Unfortunately, this is a situation to actually thank these companies for, as hard drive-based iPods aren't designed to take the kind of impact that running delivers; their drives would ultimately end up failing sooner (as opposed to later), and there would be a lot of unhappy, iPod-less runners out there. Believe it or not, Apple (for once) actually saved a lot of people a couple hundred dollars with this move.I won't spend much more time on a review, as iLounge has already been there, done that. I do, however, think that some feature requests are in order. After all, this is a 1.0 product, right? When on a distance run, the audio feedback begins rattling off the remaining distance every 100 meters when the last 500 meters is reached. I realize it's a 'pump you up' technique, but this can get kind of annoying when I'm grooving with a song; an option to toggle this would be super. The Nike+ site really needs to discover the wonders of those futuristic 'cookie' things; having to re-login at every visit is so... 1994. Speaking of the site - this one might be a little crazier, but: I think it would be a smoother experience if the Nike+ 'application' was simply integrated into iTunes itself (toggle-able in the Sources list: My Library - Podcasts - Videos - Nike+ would be cool). I'm using an iPod with an iPod accessory, and I need to plug said iPod into iTunes to do anything with this running data anyway - why am I surfing out to an external site to view how out of shape I am and challenge friends to distance competitions to see who has to pay for coffee next time we hang out? Add a 'podcasts' option to the music choices available for the run. As far as I can tell, if I want to listen to a specific podcast on a run, I need to create a playlist (either on my Mac or 'On the Go' on the iPod itself) and add a podcast in order to listen to it during a run. Clunky. That's about it for my list of requests for an update to the Nike + iPod Sport Kit product and software. What do you readers think? Has anyone else been stopped dead in their tracks with one problem or another? Sound off.
