The basic functionalities of the device are explained below:
Time Tracking
Runners can preset their goal running time, and select either automatic feedback (set to a time or distance interval), or manual progress check. They start the chronometer when they are ready to run, with either the “time start” command or a button press. Throughout their run they are automatically notified of the time elapsed, according to the preferences they have set. The duration of their run is stored in the device memory and can be automatically transmitted to other mobile devices or computers through the mobile network (long range) or Bluetooth (short range).
Distance/Speed Tracking
Runners can preset a goal distance and speed, and select either automatic feedback (set to a time or distance interval) or manual progress check. They start the speedometer when they are ready to run, with either the “speed start” command or a button press. Throughout their run they are automatically notified of their mileage and speed, according to the preferences they have set. Like their running time, the runners’ distance and speed are stored in the device memory and can be automatically transmitted to other mobile devices or computers.
Heart Rate Monitor
Runners can adjust their target heart rate range, and select feedback in beats per minute or percentages. Once they start the heart rate monitor, with either the “heart rate start” command or a button press, they will be notified of their current heart rate or when they are out of range, according to the preferences they have set.
Music Player
Runners can download music playlists to their device from their computer or a network server. They select a playlist to listen to before they start their run, and can then skip forward and backward with in the selection while en route. They control the music with simple voice commands (i.e. “music start”, “music skip”) or a button press. The music volume is synchronized with the feedback volume so that both sounds are audible at all times.
Mobile Phone
Runners decide whose calls they will accept. They can maintain a set list of allowed callers, or choose to edit a list before each run. Calls from people who are not on the list are automatically sent to voice mail. Allowed calls are announced through the audio headset. Runners can accept the call by responding “answer” or by pressing any button on the device. If they do nothing the caller is sent to voice mail. They can also preset a custom running message (i.e., “I can’t talk now because I’m on a run!”) to be played for all or selected callers. Runners can disconnect from a call by voice command – “end call” – or by pressing any button on the device. Music and audio feedback audio are automatically paused for the duration of calls.
Runners can make outgoing calls by using the voice command “new call” plus a name from their address book. To call a new contact they can dictate the phone number and save it to their address book for future use. For added safety, the voice command “SOS” automatically calls the local emergency service. Text messages can be sent and retrieved by voice.
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