Nike also launched a line of "iPod ready" performance clothing, including jackets, shirts and shorts that can hold iPods and keep wires hidden. "We share the same types of consumers (with Apple)," said Trevor Edwards, Nike's vice president of global brand management. "We know that these two brands work really well together." Apple, which has shipped over 50 million iPods, controls 77% of the U.S. market for portable digital music players according to the NPD group.
The main question however is whether or not this effort will lead to Nike selling more shoes? Analyst John Shanley of Susquehanna Financial Group doesn't think so. He admitted the Nike+iPod launch was innovative but said Nike's core base is teenage boys, and it's likely Nike+iPod won't appeal to the vast majority. "Is it going to move the needle in terms of them selling more footwear?" he asked. "Probably not." iTunes will also feature a Nike Sport Music section, which will feature playlists of well-known athletes.
Source:
Reuters