Nike Plus iPhone App Gets Updated, No Longer Requires Sensor In Shoe

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Nike has recently rolled out an update for their Nike+ iPhone app, and this is one that comes as welcomed. The latest update brings the Nike+ GPS app up to version 1.0.1, but more important is what that update means — the shoe sensor is no longer required.

Yup, some will likely remember the Nike+ iPod setup where you could use a device such as the iPod nano for tracking your runs. And as an avid triathlete and runner I once loved the ability to do so, but that was quickly replaced by alternatives that used GPS for tracking. You see, the Nike+ iPod setup required the user to have a special sensor mounted in their shoe, and had to calibrate before using it. Furthermore, given it tracked progress like it did, it was not possible to use for other exercise activities such as biking.

Personally, I have been committed to the Runkeeper Pro app as they are cross platform and allowed me to move from the iPhone over to Android and keep my workout data in one place. But if I were still using the iPhone, the Nike+ GPS app would be on my radar. That said, it does not come as a free app, but seems inexpensive at $1.99.

One nice perk behind using the Nike+ setup is the community that they have. Of course, others such as Runkeeper also have that, but moving back to the Nike app. As for what you can expect in exchange for that $1.99 price tag, the app touts features such as the ability to background which means you can track your run and still stream music using apps such as Slacker or Pandora.

Otherwise, other features of the Nike+ GPS app include the ability to record stats such as your pace, distance and route. There is also voice feedback that allows you to tap on the screen and get a voice stating your current progress as well as the ability to kick it into high gear by activating your “power song.”

And lastly, in terms of compatibility, the Nike+ GPS app requires iOS 4.0 or later and will work with the iPhone 3GS and iPhone 4 as well as the 2nd, 3rd and 4th generation iPod touch.