IPod Compatible Sneakers From Apple And Nike - Talk about Convergence

So what do you get when two of the hottest brands in the world join forces? According to the Cult of Mac, It's a global mega-brand mashup! This is no ordinary cross promotion, Apple and Nike have teamed up and integrated product functionality in order to offer consumers a new 'experience'...and I think its brilliant!

The Nike+iPod cross promotion encourages runners to buy a new pair of Nike+ sneakers, which have a little pocket for a wireless sensor. The wireless sensor is part of a $30 Nike+iPod Sport Kit from Apple, which is expected to ship within 60 days (maybe a little late out of the gate considering summer will likely be wrapping up, and now is when people are looking to shed those extra winter pounds).

The Nike+iPod Sport Kit also includes a small receiver that plugs into the dock connector on the bottom of the iPod. Out on the road, the sensor sends data about time, distance, and pace to the iPod, which provides unspecified "workout-based voice feedback" while you run. Presumably, it's encouraging.

Back at home, the iPod uploads the exercise data to the Mac or PC, and syncs with iTunes and the NikePlus website which records runs and sets goals. In addition, the site will allow runners to challenge each other to "virtual races" and download time- or distance-based workout routines. It will also offer sporty iMixes "chosen and introduced by top athletes."

Pretty cool stuff. Maybe a little more gimicky than functional - but nonetheless, this kind of product partnering and integration is something we will only see more of over time. I believe in the not too distant future, most of our products will communicate with one another in an effort to make our lives better and easier. Our clothing might have small micro chips that communicate wash instructions to the washing machine. Our mustard jar may tell our frigidaire that it is almost empty, at which point our frigidaire might hop online and order more Grey Poupon. As technology evolves, it is my opinion that we will get closer and closer to this kind of convergence. Like I said...pretty cool stuff.

Gotta run!