Nike+ without the Dongle

Today Nike released a Nike+ app for iPhone/iPod Touch users which allows you to use Nike+ without the need for the dongle for your shoe.  The new app utilizes GPS to track the runners distance and speed during each workout.  From the press release Nike released today.

The Nike+ GPS app for iPhone allows runners to:

Run Anywhere: From indoor to outdoor, track to treadmill, this new app combines the power of GPS technology with an accelerometer to map and track a run from anywhere. Even if the GPS signal is not available, the accelerometer will allow the user to continue to track pace, distance, time and calories-burned.

Map Your Runs: GPS technology allows runners to keep track of all their routes including a breakdown of pace and distance at different points during a run. Runners can even tap the screen during a run to see their current location.

Challenge Yourself: The “Challenge Me” feature allows runners to challenge themselves to run farther, faster, or longer than a previous run already logged. The app will also track run history to be able to personalize challenges.

Stay Connected: Runners can wirelessly connect with www.nikeplus.com after each run to instantly save the run and share it with friends via the site, Twitter, or Facebook. In addition, they can view their progress on goals, participate in running challenges and download coaching programs.

Stay Motivated: Runners receive motivating messages from top athletes and celebrities when specific customized goals are achieved, challenges are won, or when a personal best is achieved. Runners can also tap the iPhone screen to receive in-run feedback.

The Nike+ GPS App is available for $1.99 from the App Store on iPhone and iPod touch at www.itunes.com/appstore. The Nike+ GPS App is compatible with the iPhone and iPod touch although the app will function only through accelerometer technology on the iPod touch.

I have used Nike+ in the past and have found it somewhat accurate but in the future I will be hoping to review this and test out the accuracy.  No word yet on whether it will be ported over to Android but I wouldn’t be holding my breath as iTunes is required to sync on the non app version of Nike+.  Now I just have another reason to try to convince the wife to let me get a iPod Touch.