Tech Shout!

The much awaited collaboration by Nike and Apple is finally over, as the Nike + iPod shoe has finally hit the shelves in New York, Chicago and Los Angeles. The launch of this breakthrough product will soon follow in other parts of the world as well, Apple said. The Nike+iPod Sport Kit is being sold for a price of $29 USD (Rs.1, 344) and around$100 (Rs.4, 635) for the Nike+ shoes. The Nike+ iPod Sport Kit allows Nike+ ready footware to communicate with the iPod Nano.

The Nike+iPod device will be available through Apple’s online and offline locations, as well as on Nike.com and select retail locations. As the device is attached to the shoe, audible updates on speed, distance covered and calories burned will be made available.

A week ago, Nike launched two Nike +ready shoes, the Air Zoom Moire+ and Air Zoom Plus+. By the end of July, Nike plans to have six more styles fully equipped with the same device.

It will be necessary to upgrade your iTunes version to iTunes 6.0.5, in order to use the enhanced functionality that the Sports Kit provides.

Besides, Apple has also updated its support website with a new section which covers the new Nike+iPod Sport Kit and related services. The new Nike+iPod support area offers several technical specifications and FAQs, including information on wireless capabilities, battery performance and calibration. The new section also provides troubleshooting tips, a discussion forum and a very helpful video tutorial.

Mr Sanjay Mehra, General Manager - South Asia, Nike Inc, said that the shoe priced at around $129 ($100 for the shoe and $29 for the kit) globally, is likely to be `similarly priced in India.’ “We are working out some certification details and we hope to launch it here at the same time as the global launch,” he said. Mr. Mehra also said that India’s passion for sports would definitely drive the global shoemaker’s growth in India.