Nike opens doors to Nike+ Ecosystem and reveals the newest + FuelBand – Nike+ FuelBand SE

Nike is known globally for being the top sports equipment and apparel manufacturer and is a multi-billion dollar company because of it. The Oregon based company is able to maintain its rightful place atop the mountain because its capital allows for high flexibility when it comes to embracing new product ideas. Nike’s thirst for innovation is second to none in the apparel industry and the last 50+ years are chockfull with examples, dating back to when it was under the guise of Blue Ribbon Sports.

Nike’s move to smartphone apps was subtle like most large brand companies were. However, Nike didn’t seem to want to just stop simply with smartphone apps, the company also wanted to travel down the path less travelled once again in an attempt to conquer another niche market – Wearable Devices. Nike first announced the Nike+ FuelBand in January 2012, early in 2013 the company opened up a competition, Nike+ Accelerator Program, which allowed 10 selected developers to utilize Nike’s API in hopes that the developers could create the next great apps for the FuelBand.

Built from the success of the Accelerator Program, Nike’s latest press release unveils its Nike+ Ecosystem. The ecosystem is home to three programs – Nike+ Fuel Lab, Nike+ Running, and the Nike+ Move App.

The Nike+ Fuel Lab is 12-week program designed specifically for developers who already offers Health & Fitness apps. Much like the Accelerator Program, Nike states “ten partner companies will be selected and given the tools, resources and support they need to launch an optimized NikeFuel integration by the end of the program.” At the end of the Accelerator Program the ten participating companies were given the opportunity to pitch the ideas to angel investors. It is likely participants in the Fuel Lab will be given the same chance.

Nike is also releasing the Nike+ Move App is an introductory app that is designed exclusively for iPhone 5s users.

The newest version of the band – Nike+ FuelBand SE – has upgrades from the previous version. Nike was interested in revamping the FuelBand through look, durability, and connectivity of the product. Nike+ FuelBand SE opts for Bluetooth 4.0 technology for continuous connectivity with the smartphone app. The company also redesigned the circuit board allowing for more flexibility while maintaining the products overall durability.

Nike also reminds us that this is a Health & Fitness device first with the inclusion of new features – Sessions and Win the Hour. Sessions was designed to allow users to set when they are engaging in a high intense activity to help track specific amounts of NikeFuel earned during those workouts. Win the Hour is the newest motivation feature set up as an alert for users to be active for at least 5 minutes per hour.

The price tag of the Nike+ FuelBand SE is $149.

Follow the link below to register to an upcoming webinar focused on Wearable Devices.

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