IPod-Compatible Sneakers From Apple And Nike

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It’s a global mega-brand mashup!

Apple is teaming up with Nike to cross-promote sneakers and iPods. The footwear and earwear giants are soon launching a new line of iPod-compatible sneakers, plus a wireless pedometer-cum-connection-kit that pumps exercise feedback into runners’ ears. “Faster, fat ass!”

The Nike+iPod cross promotion encourages runners to buy a new pair of Nike+ sneakers, which have a little pocket for a wireless sensor. The wireless sensor is part of a $30 Nike+iPod Sport Kit from Apple, which is expected to ship within 60 days.

The Nike+iPod Sport Kit also includes a small receiver that plugs into the dock connector on the bottom of the iPod. Out on the road, the sensor sends data about time, distance, and pace to the iPod, which provides unspecified “workout-based voice feedback” while you run. Presumably, it’s encouraging.

Back at home, the iPod uploads the exercise data to the Mac or PC, and syncs with iTunes and the NikePlus website which records runs and sets goals. In addition, the site will allow runners to challenge each other to “virtual races” and download time- or distance-based workout routines. It will also offer sporty iMixes “chosen and introduced by top athletes.”

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16 responses to “IPod-Compatible Sneakers From Apple And Nike”

  1. xen ix says:

    Hmm. An easy way to keep track of your habits. CIA and NSA will love these shoes.

  2. Andrey says:

    Very interesting. I’d like it. And the price not very big.

  3. Mike Purvis says:

    My iPod is telling me that I can go the extra mile.

  4. sac says:

    I think it’s a great idea, and a great motivator to keep on training. Too bad Nike makes bad running shoes. They’re OK but do not compare with Mizuno, Asics, or New Balance. The shoes break down too quickly. So I don’t know how many real runners this will really attract.

  5. Stu says:

    Why is this site kinda out of sync with the one at wired?

    p.s. got the book : )

  6. Runningupnorth says:

    I agree with sac that Nike running shoes stink compared to Asics, but really there is nothing special about the shoes other than a pocket for the chip that “talks” to your nano….I’m buying the chip and figuring out a way to attach it to my Asics!

  7. Marys says:

    The Nike+iPod Sport Kit also includes a small receiver that plugs into the dock connector on the bottom of the iPod. Out on the road, the sensor sends data about time, distance, and pace to the iPod, which provides unspecified “workout-based voice feedback” while you run. Presumably, it’s encouraging.

  8. blue says:

    I tried the Nike +ipod shoe and I really like using the Ipod trainers, it is REALLY helping train for running long distance. BUT the actual shoe is not the best, they wear out to fast. I wish Asics would make a pair that is compatible w/ my ipod. I can do what “runningupnorth” is doing and make it fit somehow.