Skip to content

Strava introduces Live Segments on Apple Watch for the first time, initiating a new era of competition

Discussed with Strava's Chief Product Officer on the significant Apple Watch update introducing Real-Time Segments to the device's interface

"Strava introduces Live Segments to Apple Watch for the initial time" - Onward with live races on...
"Strava introduces Live Segments to Apple Watch for the initial time" - Onward with live races on Strava for Apple Watch users

Strava introduces Live Segments on Apple Watch for the first time, initiating a new era of competition

In a significant move, Strava, the popular fitness tracking app, has launched a redesigned version of its app for Apple Watch. According to the company's CEO, Miles Salazar, this update is one of the premier features of Strava, setting it apart from other fitness apps.

The design team took inspiration from track lights around a stadium for the new app's interface, aiming to provide a cleaner user experience and more powerful features. The redesign includes a simplified, intuitive way to show progress on a tiny screen, making it easier for users to track their workouts.

One of the key features of the redesigned app is Live Segments. These game-like features turn a stretch of road or trail into a timed challenge against yourself or the wider community. On Apple Watch, Live Segments provide a banner as you approach a segment, real-time updates as you progress, and instant results when you finish.

Salazar describes Apple as a "fantastic partner" in shaping the Strava experience on Apple Watch. He emphasizes the app's distinct and unique features, such as Live Segments, as a major draw for users.

The Apple Watch has seen a significant increase in usage within the Strava ecosystem. According to the company's Year in Sport report, the Apple Watch held two spots among the preferred devices for runners. Moreover, there has been a 20% year-over-year increase in users recording workouts on the Apple Watch.

Strava users can access Live Segments, but subscribers unlock additional features like real-time pace comparisons, distance countdowns, and more detailed progress tracking. Syncing has also been made faster and more reliable in the redesigned app.

Interestingly, the developer of the new version of the Strava app for Apple Watch remains unspecified.

Apple will announce its latest slate of wearables next Tuesday (9 September). With the redesigned Strava app offering a unique experience compared to Apple's own Workout app, it remains to be seen how this update will fit into Apple's plans.

Many runners find competition with their personal best records motivating, and Salazar hints at continued updates to the Apple Watch experience as part of regular improvements. Users can sign up for Strava for free, making it an accessible option for fitness enthusiasts.

In conclusion, the redesigned Strava app for Apple Watch introduces Live Segments to the wrist for the first time, offering a fresh and engaging way for users to track their fitness progress and compete with themselves or the community.

Read also:

Latest