Philips launched a new MP3 player during CES aimed specifically for active people, with the company catering to a growing number of athletes.
The 4GB device includes an accelerometer that tracks exercise progress in real-time. If a user is falling behind the pace, voice prompts motivate the person back into a higher rhythm. It's also possible to sync the Activa player to a PC so results can be stored online.
Favorite songs can be tagged, as the MP3 player uses software to create a custom playlist of songs that share the same tempo.
The Philips Activa MP3 player is scheduled for release in April with a $129 MSRP price tag.
Additional details weren't immediately available on the show floor, with Philips expected to disclose more prior to the April launch.
As an athlete who has used normal MP3 players and products such as the Finis SwiMP3v2 designed for athletes, it's nice to see active people will have yet another product to choose from. The next 18 months should yield numerous products geared for active people -- custom MP3 players, more durable earbuds, and MP3 player exercise bands.
