Nike+ Running app updated with Apple HealthKit integration, elevation tracking, more

Reaching version 4.6 with today's update, Nike+ Running gains a solid set of new features for tracking your workouts, not the least of which being integration with Apple's HealthKit and accompanying Health app.

HealthKit support means Nike+ Running can connect to Apple Health on iOS 8 for statistics aggregation and storage. The running app can also tap into Apple Health data to offer more detailed information like heart rate monitor support during runs when using a Bluetooth 4.0 device like Wahoo's Tickr products.

In addition, the app adds in elevation tracking for more precise workout monitoring, though the feature is designed for the iPhone 6 and accuracy may drop off when using iPhone 5s and below. Apple built a barometric pressure sensor into the onboard M8 motion coprocessor found in the iPhone 6 and 6 Plus, enabling calculation of elevation changes like those experienced when climbing up stairs.

Finally, a number of design tweaks include a new quick start feature and in-app gesture controls that cycle between music playback, stats viewing and a live map.

Nike+ Running is available as a free 46.2MB download from the iOS App Store.