14 DAY TRIAL // Nike has expanded its iOS offerings with a Nike+ GPS app, adding GPS functionality that allows you to track your runs with GPS rather than manually using Nike+ sensors. The software works with iOS devices exclusively.
The Nike+ GPS app gives motivational encouragement from Nike’s top celebrity athletes while you run, as well as when you finish.
“The Nike+ GPS app helps you get the most out of every run by tracking where you go and motivating you to take it further,” the company states.
The official iTunes App Store description, complete with a list of key features typical to the new application, can be found below.
- Download it on the go and start running anywhere. With this app in hand, track every indoor and outdoor workout easily, without a sensor.
- Record your pace, distance and run route using the iPhone’s GPS and accelerometer technology so you can focus on the road ahead, and relive your run later.
- Anytime you’re up for a challenge, push farther, faster, or longer to better reach your goals. Then celebrate your victories with fun, motivational messages from Nike’s top athletes.
- As you run, get voice feedback on how you’re doing or tap the map to see where you are. Then activate your personalized PowerSong for an extra boost.
- Quickly send each run to Nikeplus.com where you can brag to friends, join challenges, set goals and connect with the rest of the Nike+ community.
Although Nike+ GPS was designed with the iPhone in mind, the application is also compatible with the iPod touch, Nike says.
In fact, it even works with the iPad, although few people may employ it on the Apple tablet.
However, for one reason or another, those using the software on Apple’s player will lack the mapping capabilities, Nike notes.
In addition to this, the sports gear company warns that “continued use of GPS running in the background can dramatically decrease battery life,” just in case users are baffled as to why their devices are draining the battery faster than usual.
Although the iTunes App Store requirements list says Nike+ GPS needs iOS 3.1 or later to run, the app’s official description reveals that “The Nike+ GPS App is compatible with iPhone 3GS, iPhone 4 and iPod touch (2nd, 3rd and 4th generations) running iOS 4.0 or later.”
It’s probably safe to assume that iOS 4 is the best firmware version to have when installing the new Nike+ app.