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New Nike+ iPod Accessory: The Nike Amp+ Wrist Controller

November 27th, 2006 by Podophile

Men’s Health magazine has just published its online 2007 Tech Guide, which features a product that hasn’t been officially announced: The Nike Amp+. It’s a wristwatch-style controller for the iPod to be used while running or working out. It features an iPod shuffle-like set of control buttons, and lets you browse songs or check your run info on its LED screen.

From the site (listed under the ‘Media Players’ category):

Playlist miscues can ruin a run. That’s the impetus behind this wrist-mounted Bluetooth remote, which lets you browse through songs on your iPod or check your run times without fumbling with the player. It syncs up with the Nike+iPod running system via Bluetooth wireless connection, displaying information on an illuminated LED readout hidden beneath the matte-finish face of the bracelet. Just stash your iPod in your pocketâ€”no more fiddling with the sweat-slicked dial. MSRP $80

The website notes that the Amp+ has not yet been released, and there’s no word on when it will be.

Some are speculating that this foreshadows the arrival of bluetooth enabled iPods, but I think it’s much more likely that the Amp+ will work with the receiver dongle that comes with the Nike+iPod Sport Kit.

I’m looking forward to giving this a try. Though at $80, I’m not too sure if I’ll be shelling out for it. The iPod nano is small and light enough that I usually end up just carrying it my hand while I run, giving me all the control access that I need. But for those who prefer to carry their iPod in an armband or their pocket, this is sure to be a handy accessory.

Now if they could only add a heart rate monitor…

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Posted in Health & Fitness, Nike+iPod |

8 Responses to “New Nike+ iPod Accessory: The Nike Amp+ Wrist Controller”

on 27 Nov 2006 at 9:23 pm Tony Gee

I saw this on ilounge and wanted to post, but decided against it. Good going on putting this up.

You should have a email address where we can send you topics or items we find.
on 27 Nov 2006 at 11:22 pm Podophile

Your wish is my command…

I’ve added an email address on the sidebar. Though I probably won’t have the time to follow up and post them all, I’m always happy to get submissions. :)
on 28 Nov 2006 at 1:21 am mark "booyaa" sta-ana

$80 means only the wealthy style slaves are going to want it. besides the marware sportsuit relay is less than half the price and makes you look like some 80’s cartoon super hero! :)

i will say the amp+ looks slick, but they need to drop that price..
on 28 Nov 2006 at 4:40 pm Bill

This is the response I got back when I e-mailed Nike about the Amp+…

Dear Bill,

Thanks for contacting Nike regarding Amp+.

The Nike Amp+ featured in the December 2006 Men’s Health Magazine “Tech Guide
2007″ will be available for purchase in Spring 2007. More details regarding the
release will be advertised prior to release.

Once again, thanks for contacting Nike. Let us know if you have further
questions.

Sincerely,

Russ
Nike TIming

P.S. You should see the new Nike+ Ready products at Nikeplus.com.
on 27 Mar 2007 at 4:44 am Cee Mack

I agree, a heart rate monitor please.

I would have bought the Nike+ for use with my existing iPod a long time ago if only it had this feature.