Apple has teamed up with Nike to create the running-focused Apple Watch Nike+. The special version of the new Series 2 models includes extra benefits like unique band designs and colors, Nike watch faces, and integration with Nike’s specialized running app. The new models begin shipping on October 28, and 9to5Mac had the chance to check out some of the special features that make Apple Watch Nike+ unique.
Apple Watch Nike+ includes the same benefits as all Apple Watch Series 2 models including a built-in GPS for outdoor run and cycling tracking without carrying an iPhone, stronger water resistance that enables new swim workouts, and a much brighter display for higher visibility in outdoor lighting.
Nike+ models are offered with two sizes, two aluminum finishes, with four different band colors: 38mm or 42mm displays, Silver or Space Gray casings, and Black/Volt, Black/Cool Gray, Flat Silver/Volt, and Flat Silver/White bands.
Although Nike+ began shipping about a month after the standard Apple Watch Series 2, the collection features the same $369 and $399 price with larger display models costing $30 more.
Apple Watch Nike+ features two unique watch faces that feature Nike’s signature font and Volt color with both digital and analog versions. You can customize the style of both Nike watch faces including how the time appears, plus there’s a permanent complication that offers instant access to the Nike+ Run Club app.
In addition to two Nike watch faces, you can also use Nike’s Volt color on Apple’s watch faces including digital and analog Activity, Numerals, and Chronograph. This isn’t an option on any other Apple Watch as it’s unique to Nike products. Volt as a color option on most watch faces lets you color match almost any watch face to the Nike Sport Band.
Nike Sport Band is a unique take on Apple’s Sport Band that features compression-molded perforations that offer increased ventilation during activities and a somewhat reduced weight. Black versions with Volt or Cool Gray are offered with Space Gray models while Flat Silver versions with Volt or White are offered with Silver models. The additional perforations have the extra benefit of being more customizable in terms of sizing too.
Check out our hands-on video (thanks to Jordan for recording on the spot) with Apple Watch Nike+ below for additional tidbits:
While you can try the Apple Watch Nike+ in select Apple Stores ahead of its October 28 release, there are still a few unknowns about the special version of the Series 2 model.
The version of the Nike+ Run Club app on the demo models is different from the version of the app currently on the App Store; it’s unclear if an updated version of the app will be available for all Apple Watch owners. We know the Nike watch faces will be unique and my guess it that the app experience will be available to everyone.
It’s also not clear if Nike Sport Bands will be sold separately in the future but all signs currently point to no for now. Apple Watch bands are interchangeable on Nike+ models just like any other models. [Update 10/24: From Apple’s latest press release:
Nike Sport Bands are available exclusively with Apple Watch Nike+ models and not sold separately.]
You can read 9to5Mac’s full review of the Apple Watch Series 2 for more on the latest features, and check out our gallery below for more shots of the Apple Watch Nike+ ahead of its release in two weeks.
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