Nike
Latest
Uncle Walt says run to get an iPod + Nike Sport Kit
Walt Mossberg, the elder statesman of tech journalism, continues the good press for the iPod + Nike Sport Kit. He, and Katherine Boehret, both gave the gizmo a whirl during their normal running/walking routines and felt their workouts transformed from solitary drudgery to running with a training (a disembodied trainer, but a trainer nonetheless).They both wish it included a heart monitor, and that it was a little easier to use it with non-Nike shoes, but give it high marks for doing what it is billed to do.
iLounge releases The Free iPod Book 2.2
Those iPod-obsessed kids over at iLounge have updated their Free iPod Book to version 2.2 (yes, books can have version point updates too). Four all-new sections are included in this updated version: Nike + iPod Sport Kit Troubleshooting Your iPod U2 iPod + iPod Pack-Ins Backstage at iLounge You'll also find the typical kinds of updates to previous content you would expect. This 200+ page "free manual on getting the most from your iPod" is available from iLounge's update post, as well as from the iLounge Library. Enjoy.
Nike+iPod Sport Kit review roundup
Even if the the Nike+iPod Sport Kit were inaccurate, unintuitive, and uncomfortable to wear -- which it doesn't seem to be -- the handful of reviews we've read so far all agree that it possesses at least one attribute that might still make it a worthy purchase: it actually motivated the reviewers to run harder and more often than normal. Fortunately for people who also like their gear to function properly, the wireless pedometer cum personal trainer sounds like it does indeed perform as advertised, offering runners and joggers an easy setup, useful mid-workout statistics and updates, and perhaps most helpfully, a polished online interface to plot one's progress against personal goals or compare esoteric stats with exercise enthusiasts around the world. There are a few downsides here, though, not the least of which is the fact that this is basically a disposable product; the non-rechargeable, non-replaceable battery will supposedly crap out after about 1,000 miles or a year of regular use (and that's assuming you remember to reach into your stinky shoes and turn off the transmitter after each run). You'll also have to shell out for a new armband to secure your nano, as most currently available options (except for those from Nike, of course) won't hold the combination of iPod plus wireless receiver. Overall, it doesn't seem like the kit alone is compelling enough to encourage more folks to snatch up a nano, but if you already own one of these diminutive DAPs, it's a cheap way to give it some extra functionality -- especially if you forgo the special pair of $100+ Nike sneakers for a quick and easy DIY mod to your current kicks.Read - CNETRead - Shiny ShinyRead - TewksRead - iLounge Read - WSJ
Nike+iPod works with any shoe: The 99-cent DIY shoe mod
Okay, so it should have been pretty obvious that not everyone interested in indulging in the Nike+iPod Sport Kit would be shelling out for a brand new pair of (Nike) kicks. If you're are one of those folks perfectly satisfied with the shoes you've already invested in, you've probably been chewing on ideas to get your kit to work effectively. Well, we've got good news, the answer is here and the solution is cheap and so easy it's almost unimaginative. If you have even the smallest hint of the "handyman" gene in you, this project should have you up and running in no time: by securing a small piece of Velcro on your shoes of choice, you can affix the wireless bug to your shoe without emptying your wallet at Niketown. Although this solution may not seem exactly ingenious, it looks to work fairly well, and hey, it can't hurt to give it a run-through.
Apple adds Nike+ section to iPod Support site
Apple must have heard our jab at their one-line Nike+ Sport Kit support document yesterday and decided to whip up a full-blown Nike+ support section of their much-loved iPod Support site. Delusions of grandeur aside, the support section offers the typical troubleshooting and 'How do I...' sections, along with a video tutorial detailing how to run how to get on your feet with using this slick new kit to enhance your run. It also includes a link to Apple's new Nike + iPod Sport Kit discussions sub-category which lives under their iPod nano forum. While these should be handy new resources for all sorts of internet-related arguments over Nike and why 5G iPods didn't make the cut, just remember to still get out on your feet with your shiny new running kit, as we're pretty sure Apple Stores won't accept "I just never got around to it" as a return excuse.
Use the Nike + iPod Sport Kit on any shoe with help from a Nike accessory
Now don't think we're just trying to pimp Nike's stuff here because we're getting hookups or something (we have to run out and buy our own kits like anyone else), but TUAW reader Mr. Gaskell recommended a tip that could allow you to use the new iPod Sport Kit with any shoes, without the need for awkward lace tying or unsightly duct tape: Nike makes a small wallet accessory (pictured) called 'Nike Run Shoe Wallet S05' for $10 that attaches to the top of any shoe. It's designed to hold small personal items for a run, such as change, but (as I remember) it's too small even for something like a driver's license, but it should be a perfect fit for the shoe sensor. I'd link to it, but I can't find it anywhere at the Niketown site; I've only seen it in a brick and mortar Niketown store. I'm sure they're also available elsewhere on the web, such as eBay or in similar forms from competitors. I have no idea if the kit is still accurate when attaching it with an accessory like this, but we're receiving reports that people are having success with jury-rigging the sensor to their shoes with the aforementioned unique lace tying and duct taping techniques; using something like this wallet doesn't sound like your results should be any different. Any readers out there try this yet?
All your workouts are belong to Nikeplus
We're not sure how a one-sentence support document made it into Apple's support knowledgebase, but this strange doc somehow snuck past the velvet rope. It simply states: "There is no way to remove workout data from the nikeplus website", with a 'stay tuned for more info' bit at the end to finish off what is probably the shortest support document we have ever seen. Getting to the topic, however: it seems just a bit strange that there is no way to remove workout information from this supposedly revolutionary new service/iPod accessory. It's not like we're suddenly terrified about Nike's trampling of user privacy, but we wouldn't be surprised if a few tin foil hat fashion aficionados raised at least some sort of a flag over this.
iLounge unboxes the Nike + iPod Sport Kit
iLounge has unboxed the Nike + iPod Sport Kit and decided to go full-on with pictures of everything, including some iPod-infused Nike apparel and screenshots of how exactly the software in the iPod nano works. While we've already seen some pics of the software, iLounge posted more images that reveal the workout options are surprisingly in-depth and customizable. There are various workout types that target distance running and burning calories, for example. iLounge even posted images of the Nike+ site and the user experience, even saying that it's hard to give Nike enough credit for the beauty and simplicity baked into the site. Head over to iLounge's First Look at this impressive new accessory.
Unboxing the Nike+iPod Sport Kit
Now that you can actually go out and purchase a Nike+iPod Sport Kit, you're probably wondering what exactly it is that you're getting with this package, so iLounge was kind enough to snap some photos of the unboxing process and post a few screenshots of the new menu options that will show up on your nano. Feature-wise, there's really nothing here that we didn't know already, though we did learn some more details about the kit's integration with the Nikeplus website -- besides tracking your workout statistics and long-term progress, you can also compare your performance with runners much better than yourself, providing you with an incentive to either work harder or try your hand at another sport. Also worth noting is the fact that the kit will definitely not work with any iPod other than the nano, and your device must sport the latest firmware in order to recognize the adapter. Keep reading to scope out a few of the menu screens, head over to iLounge for the full rundown, and stay tuned for a roundup as reviews start trickling out...
The Nike + iPod Sport Kit is now available
Lace up those running shoes kids, cuz Apple just released the Nike + iPod Sport Kit. You've been able to pre-order it almost since the original announcement, but I just received an announcement email from Apple and sure 'nuff: the store lists them as 'now shipping'.Unfortunately, I can't track down anything about the rumored kit that works with any shoes, not just the $85-100 shoes Nike is pimping as compatible with this kit. Most likely, if this kit exists, I would imagine it'll be some time before it's released so Nike can sell some of these fancy new shoes.
Nike and Apple Launch Nike+iPod Sport Kit (for real)
So we've been on the Nike+iPod Sport Kit's jock (har) since it was announced way back in May, and after some false starts its finally materialized. Beginning on July 13th (i.e. today), retail Apple stores as well as Niketowns will stock the $29 kit, which as you may recall utilizes a proprietary wireless protocol to transmit data from the sneaker-bound sensor to your data displaying iPod nano. If you thought Apple and Nike weren't gonna do this up real big on launch day, they're proving otherwise with some big city celebrations -- Niketown New York is holding an extravaganza to kick off the release by having superstars Mariano Rivera from the NY Yankees and AJ Pierzynski from the Chicago White Sox on site, just to name a couple. If you've been looking an excuse to start exercising again, now's your shot, so run -- don't walk -- to your local joint to pick one up. While you're at it you might as well keep track of your pace as you hoof it back. [Thanks to everyone who sent this in]
iPod Updater 2006-06-28 is available
Hot on the heels of iTunes 6.0.5, Apple has released iPod Updater 2006-06-28. According to Apple, this update:"...includes iPod Software 1.1.2 for iPod, iPod Software 1.2 for iPod nano, and iPod Software 1.1.4 for iPod shuffle. iPod Updater 2006-06-28 contains the same software versions as iPod Updater 2006-03-23 for all other iPod models."Specifically, the update offers Nike + iPod support for iPod nano, a volume limit setting for the iPod shuffle and various bug fixes. The fact that Apple specifically states that the Nike + support is for the nano makes me wonder if that functionality won't make its way to other iPods.
iTunes 6.0.5 available, adds Nike content
Apple has released iTunes 6.0.5 via Software Update which, according to Apple..."...allows you to sync your Nike + iPod workout data to nikeplus.com, where you can easily track your progress, set training goals, challenge others, and much more. Visit the Nike Sport Music area on the iTunes Music Store to download workout mixes, Athlete Inspiration playlists, Nike podcasts, and more.Note: After purchasing music from the iTunes Music Store with iTunes 6 or later, you also need to upgrade your other computers that purchase music from the iTunes Music Store to the latest version of iTunes."Thanks to everyone who sent this in!Update: Ok, so this is weird. I just launched iTunes 6.0.5 for the first time following installation, and I can't find a darn thing that's new. What am I missing..?Update II: According to nikeplus.com, the online features will be available "July 14th." So, now I'm thinking that, while iTunes 6.0.5 will contain all the Nike content, it won't until Nike releases it on the 14th. But I could be wrong.Update III: Eagle-eyed reader Sun Chiu noticed that two Nike+ topics have been added to iTunes' help section, specifically, "Viewing and saving your Nike+ workout data" and "Using multiple Nike+ sensors and shoes."
Get your run on - Apple taking preorders for the Nike+iPod Sport Kit
It looks as though Apple is officially taking pre-orders for the $30 Nike+iPod Sport Kit, a customized wireless transmitter and receiver set that helps you track your run by integrating with Apple's iPod nano. The tips started pouring in, and sure enough, it's up in the store in all its über-branding glory. Fortunately, more compatible shoes have also been added to the Nike Plus site, though I'm sure pioneering DIYers are scoffing at the thought of purchasing a pair, and are already hard at work at assembling specs and carving out their present running gear (I'm sure I'm not the only one who'd like to see a guide for this; send in those tips people!). On a related note, TUAW reader Aaron sent us a question that y'all might want to bat around: has anyone heard about the battery life of this kit? Aaron noticed that this kit's specs mention the battery in the shoe transmitter is not replaceable, so those who run 8 miles a day like Aaron (or who I'll refer to as: RoboRunner) might have to find out how much juice these things hold before they kick the bucket. On the other hand, I'm sure in a couple of months Apple will whip out a $40 charging dock for the $30 sensor kit and make all this worrying about battery life a moot point.
Tune your run, old school
The Apple Blog points out that, with all the hubbub surrounding the Apple/Nike deal, we ought to remember that the Air Zoom Moire isn't technically the first time Apple has become involved in footwear. Many moons ago, some Apple employees could be seen sporting these babies. Oh, yeah. For some reason, those sneakers make me want to drive that DeLorean and rent Ferris Bueller's Day Off.Thanks for the chuckle, Apple Blog!
Apple patents workout music matching
It seems that Apple may have plans for incorporating the iPod into your workout other than just the integration with Nike sneakers, as a newly released patent shows that the company has invented a method of adjusting the pace and style of music playback while you exercise. Incorporated into a model called the iPod Sport, perhaps, this technology would use an accelerometer to gauge the pace of a person's workout, and encourage them to "take it to the max" by either increasing the tempo of a particular song (though hopefully not to the point where all your tunes sound like Alvin and the Chipmunks) or automatically changing to a faster-paced track. This is all well and good, but how about throwing in some Bluetooth while you're at it, cause the wire dangling from that runner's head in the illustration has got to go.[Via Unwired View]
Nike + iPod interface in action
Cool Hunting managed to snag some pics of the Nike + iPod interface during the press conference, and it looks pretty nifty. They also got some photos of runners suited up with an iPod (and a thing in their shoes I imagine). Go check it out.
Steve abandons New Balance for Nike
With all the hubbub surrounding the announcement of the Apple/Nike partnership, no one mentioned the day's most striking revelation. No one except Arik Hesseldahl, that is. In an article at Business Week Online, Arik points out that Steve was wearing a pair of Nike Moires instead of his usual New Balance 991s at the press conference. Of course, Steve couldn't wear New Balance while talking about Nike (the Moires he was wearing are part of the Nike+ line and still unavailable to the general public). This wasn't the first time we've seen Steve stray from his typical outfit. He wore brown pants when he announced FrontRow, iTunes 6, etc. back in October. That's right, I just put up a 129 word post about Steve's clothing. Flame away.
More details about the Apple/Nike partnership
BusinessWeek has the scoop on the Apple/Nike partnership that just resulted in that very cool iPod/shoe sensor item (I want one and I never run anywhere). It all started 18 months ago when Apple approached Nike to supply the shoe company with branded MP3 players. Nike had been down that road before (with several other companies) and they thought that they could do more. Fast forward a year and a half and BAM! Nike + iPodGlobal.Both companies plan on working together to bring even more cool products to market (can you say ringtones for your sneakers? Awesome).[via iLounge]
Nike+iPod Sport Kit gets FCC thumbs up
If you think Apple would put something through the FCC without a restrictive confidentiality agreement, you're crazy, but the good news is the FCC's given the Nike Apple dyad the nod for their new Nike+iPod Sport Kit. The only interesting thing we found (besides those closeups of the rear of both devices -- massively unexciting stuff), was the transmission frequency: 2425MHz. That's not Bluetooth folks, sorry if you were hoping it'd turn out to be an Apple sanctioned Bluetooth transceiver for your iPod, that just ain't gonna happen (yet).
