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Nike
made the announcement at a glitzy event in New York at which it
also launched a series of new products including self-lacing
shoes, transparent air-filled soles and soccer cleats made from
a polymer that prevents mud from sticking to the sole.
Nike was a pioneer in fitness tracking, teaming up with Apple
Inc on Nike+ running programs for the iPod and iPhone.
Nike itself created the new version of the app, in a field that
is now crowded, with rivals Adidas AG and Under Armour Inc both
buying running apps last year.
Nike Chief Executive Mark Parker said the new version of the app
- set to be launched in the U.S. market in June and later
elsewhere - would offer a more tailored service, including
personalized product recommendations and customized training
tips.
"Athletes want more than a dashboard and data – they want a more
personal relationship," he said.
Nike+ users also will have exclusive access to new products such
as HyperAdapt 1.0, a shoe with an in-sole motor that can tighten
and loosen laces to respond to an athlete's motion.
Ahead of the Rio Olympics and the European soccer championships,
Nike debuted sportswear made from lighter-weight and
faster-drying fabric, while U.S. 200 meters gold medalist
Allyson Felix modeled "AeroBlades," tiny plastic points on socks
and sleeves that are designed to reduce drag for runners.
(Reporting by Emma Thomasson; Editing by Chris Reese)
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