Apple is changing how gym-goers track their performance with the release of iOS 27. The update introduces GymKit support for iPhone and AirPods Pro 3, allowing users to sync workout data with compatible treadmill equipment without needing an Apple Watch.
To begin a session, a user simply taps their iPhone to the gym equipment. The treadmill then shares metrics like distance, incline, and pace directly to the Fitness app on the iPhone. Meanwhile, the AirPods Pro 3 provide real-time heart rate monitoring, eliminating the need to hold onto metal sensors on treadmill handles or wear external Bluetooth straps.
This functionality serves as an effective backup for individuals who may have forgotten their Apple Watch at home or find their battery depleted. The system maintains data privacy by storing information locally on the iPhone rather than on the gym equipment itself. Testing shows the metrics align closely with standard Apple Watch tracking, including elevation gain and precise distance covered.
While Apple Watch remains the primary tool for daily fitness tracking, this update ensures that users remain connected to the broader Apple fitness ecosystem through their standard hardware. The iPhone acts as the central hub for monitoring progress during the workout, providing a clear dashboard for the user. When users eventually sync their Apple Watch again, the Fitness app reconciles the data, ensuring that Activity rings remain accurate.
This move by Apple signals a wider strategy to bring fitness tracking features to more devices, lowering the barrier to entry for users who do not own a watch. By repurposing existing hardware, the company provides a reliable, data-rich experience for those focused on treadmill-based exercise.