RunIQ – First Android Wear Smartwatch for Runners
Wearable tech can be great, but these products are often designed for general use. When a runner needs a smart device, they seek something more tailored for that activity. With that in mind, New Balance has created RunIQ. It is an Android Wear smartwatch created for runners, by runners.
Partnered with Google, Intel and Strava
New Balance just recently released its first Android Wear smartwatch, the RunIQ. The watch was designed in partnership with Intel, Google, and Strava, which handled hardware, software, and run tracking, respectively. The stylish form factor also ensures that it can be worn throughout the day, no matter the occasion.
GPS, Heart Rate Monitor and Other Features
With the help of RunIQ, athletes can keep track of their performance through a number of features. RunIQ includes a built-in GPS, heart rate monitor, lap button, and interval capability. The GPS allows for course tracking, pace, and distance measurement. With constant use of the GPS and heart rate monitor, the watch will last up to 5 hours. This means runners can track a full marathon. RunIQ is a wearable and can also act as a normal smartwatch with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity. Typical use will allow up to 24 hours of battery life.
New Balance Global Run Club
Because of its collaboration with Strava, RunIQ will allow runners to upload and share their workouts with a global community. This is called the New Balance Global Run Club. Members of this community can connect with each other. They can track their performance, share their routes with other members, and celebrate their victories. There are also virtual training programs, and races that can be performed individually or with other members.
Sport Headphones
PaceIQ is a wireless set of sport headphones. These headphones are being launched alongside RunIQ. These lightweight Bluetooth headphones are made in alliance with Jabra to provide a premium sound, secure fit, and rapid charge time. When you use them alongside the RunIQ, a dedicated button provides real-time audio updates on a runner’s performance.
Water Resistant
The RunIQ comes with every feature you’d expect from a fitness wearable. It has a built-in GPS, course, pace and distance tracking, heart rate sensor, Bluetooth, and 24-hour battery life. The watch is water resistant and will sync with Strava so that you can share your workouts online.
RunIQ Works with Wi-Fi only
RunIQ has a 1.39-inch AMOLED display. This device has 512MB of DRAM as well as 4GB of internal storage. This version of the watch works with Wi-Fi only. Right it does not look like New Balance will be releasing any sort of mobile data version of the device.
RunIQ is an Android Wear-based device. It expands its usefulness far beyond its fitness tracking. Runners are sure to keep it on their wrists because the RunIQ will remain useful in all their other daily activities. Digital Trends confirmed that the RunIQ is ready for Android Wear 2.0.
Battery Life
RunIQ claims that the watch can go on for 24 hours of casual use. But it shrinks down to just a handful of hours with GPS and heart rate sensing. This could be disappointing for those accustomed to more specialized trackers. The design goal of the wearable was to ensure that it could last through an entire marathon. Those who are used to charging devices on a daily basis won’t find too much of an issue with this. But if you are one of those who tend to neglect their charging duties, you may want to look elsewhere.
Available in Two Colors
RunIQ is currently available on Amazon, but you can still purchase it from New Balance’s website for $299, in two colors: Black and Grey. Different watch bands will also be made available. PaceIQ released the same day for $110.
Nisarg is the Business Development Manager at Nimblechapps, a top mobile game development company and has been with the organisation since its inception in 2014. He likes to update his knowledge on changing trends in technology and marketing and pens his thoughts regarding the same on various blogs and LinkedIn.