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iOS 27 basically turns your iPhone and AirPods into an Apple Watch at the gym
With the release of iOS 27, Apple has integrated GymKit technology into iPhones and AirPods Pro 3, allowing users to track workouts similar to how they would with an Apple Watch. This new feature facilitates a seamless connection between the iPhone, AirPods, and compatible gym machines, providing detailed exercise metrics such as heart rate, distance, and calories burned, all stored privately on the iPhone. This shift signifies Apple's ongoing strategy to enhance fitness tracking across its devices.
ExperimentConfidence: MediumShort term horizon
Published 10 Jul 2026, 14:33 UTC3 min read
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Summary
TL;DR
- GymKit now supports iPhones and AirPods Pro 3 for gym workouts
- Users can log treadmill workouts without wearing Apple Watch
- Treadmills receive metrics like distance and incline from gym equipment
- AirPods Pro 3 serve as the heart-rate source during workouts
- Fitness data is stored privately on the iPhone
Interesting facts
- GymKit technology was introduced with Apple Watch in 2017.
- AirPods Pro 3 are the first to integrate heart-rate tracking.
- iOS 27 may attract new customers for Apple Watch.