New Nike app uses iPhone’s GPS to track runs

It looks like Nike is throwing in the towel with its Nike+ pack and has instead decided to go for a more direct route. The old app relied on a buggy sensor inside a special Nike shoe (which was sold separately). The new Nike+ GPS lets you track your jogging runs without having to purchase the entire Nike+ iPod pack. (That alone saves you an easy $30.)

The new app makes use of the built-in GPS sensor and accelerometer on the iPhone 3GS and iPhone 4 to track your speed, distance, time and calories burned. According to Nike, the app will still work even when the GPS signal is lost (though I’m guessing you probably need to have it running to start, so it can initially locate you). If “social” is the hot buzzword, then Nike’s hopped all over that too: Users can upload data to Nikeplus.com to share progress, set goals and even accept challenges (like running longer distances or doing a previously recorded run at a faster pace). The verbal words of encouragement and “powersong” features are like icing on the cake.

iPod Touch owners can also use the app to track distance and speed, though the lack of GPS means it won’t be able to map out the course.

If Nike isn’t your thing, there are still some pretty good alternatives in the App store like Runkeeper Pro and Run Tracker. But they lack the Nikeplus app’s social networking capabilities, so the $1.99 pricetag makes Nike+ GPS a good deal in my book. Check out the description on iTunes and if you give it a whirl then let us know how you like it.

Via: Intomobile