X-bit labs

Nike’s Footwear Connects to Apple’s iPod Players.

Category: Multimedia

by Anton Shilov

[ 05/24/2006 | 02:40 PM ]

Apple Computer, the maker of popular iPod music players, and Nike, a major maker of athletic clothes, announced on Wednesday their lineup of Nike+iPod products, which allow users to access to certain type of information regarding making of sports using Apple’s iPod nano music player. Both companies said the initiative will bring making of sports to a new level.

“We’re working with Nike to take music and sport to a new level. The result is like having a personal coach or training partner motivating you every step of your workout,” said Steve Jobs, Apple’s chief executive.

The new Nike+ Air Zoom Moire is the first footwear designed to “talk” to iPod. Nike plans to make many of its footwear styles Nike+ ready. With the Nike+ footwear connected to iPod nano through the Nike+iPod Sport Kit, information on time, distance, calories burned and pace is stored on iPod and displayed on the screen; real-time audible feedback also is provided through headphones. The kit includes an in-shoe sensor and a wireless receiver that attaches to iPod.

Apple’s and Nike’s initiative is not a new one: there are many products that combine the iPod music players with sports, however, the Nike+iPod gives users abilities never available before.

The Nike+iPod Sport Kit is expected to be available within 60 days for a suggested retail price of $29 through the Apple’s online store, Apple’s retail stores and the company resellers. Additionally, Nike will market the kit as well.The Nike+iPod Sport Kit requires a Nike+ shoe and an iPod nano.