NEW BALANCE ENTERS WEARABLES MARKET WITH NEW SMARTWATCH, HEADPHONES
Global athletic brand New Balance has announced its inaugural smart wearable device from its Digital Sport Division with RunIQ, a “made-to-run” smartwatch built in collaboration with leading digital, hardware and software companies, including Intel, Google, and Strava. In tandem with the launch of RunIQ, New Balance will also debut PaceIQ, Bluetooth wireless sport headphones, with sound by Jabra- the provider of premium sound solutions for sports enthusiasts.
Specifically designed for runners by runners, RunIQ helps athletes focus on their performance, engineered with Intel Inside featuring a built-in GPS, heart rate monitor, lap button, interval capability, and marathon distance battery life to help you get the most out of your run.
“New Balance has a 110-year heritage of product development and innovation in the running category, and RunIQ represents our commitment to helping athletes achieve unparalleled fitness experiences,” said Rob DeMartini, president and CEO of New Balance. “A smartwatch for runners made by runners, RunIQ combines our expertise in running with the best engineering advances through breakthrough collaborations with some of the biggest players in the technological industry.”
Through the collaboration with Strava, RunIQ allows runners to seamlessly upload and share workouts with their global community of athletes. A built-in GPS allows for course tracking, pace and distance measurement while the heart rate feature monitors in real time. With up to 24 hours of battery life with typical use or up to 5 hours of continuous life with GPS and heart rate monitoring, runners can track their marathon event. Runners can sync, store and listen to Google Play™ music from an Android phone and stay connected to smartphone notifications for on-the-go replies when connected to Wifi or Bluetooth. RunIQ is also waterproof up to 5 ATM.
“Intel technology is reinventing the boundaries of computing to evolve the way people get fit, stay active and improve their performance,” added Brian Krzanich, CEO of Intel Corporation. “Our collaboration with New Balance brings to market a smartwatch with enhanced design and functionality, resulting in a smart and connected device for runners that makes amazing experiences possible.”
Available now for pre-order at newbalance.com, RunIQ will launch at retail for $299.99 on February 1. RunIQ will be available at launch in black and gray face, accessories including watch bands and chargers also available. PaceIQ will be available at retail February 1 for $109.99.