*Update* AppleInsider is citing “several people familiar with Nike+ initiative” that these screenshots are not from Nike and may be the work of a third-party developer working on a personal project.
French blog iPhon.fr has posted screenshots of what it claims is the upcoming Nike+ app for the iPhone. The Nike+ system has been available for the iPod Nano since summer 2006.
The Nike+ software/hardware combo allows runners to track their workouts, including running distances, times, and calories burned. Runners can create goal-oriented workouts and get audio feedback from the iPod when specific milestones are achieved. Data is stored and can be later downloaded to a computer, then uploaded to the Nike+ website and compared with other runners or for personal workout tracking purposes. The iPhone’s EDGE and 3G connection could remove the need to sync with a computer by directly uploading the data to Nike servers.
The hardware of Nike+ for iPods consists of an accelerometer and a transmitter/receiver. The accelerometer is placed inside the sole of special Nike shoes that come with a built-in pocket. Third-party solutions allow non-Nike shoes to use the device by attaching them to the shoelaces or inside attachable pockets.
The transmitter/receiver is attached to the bottom of the iPod and receives data from the accelerometer. Since the iPhone contains both a transmitter and an accelerometer, it will be interesting to see what hardware will be required for the new software.
The last update to the Nike+ system was the April 2008 introduction of the Sportsband ($59.99), which replaced the need for an iPod Nano.
Links:
See original article and more screenshots at iPhone.fr
Nike shoe and Nike iPod kit images via Wikipedia.