This month, Apple Watch expanded its “track mode” to new countries, including France, Spain, and the Netherlands. Runners in those countries can now use the feature to accurately measure metrics, like pace and distance, while running track intervals.
Apple already launched track mode in the U.S. back in December, as well as in Australia, Germany, Canada, Italy, and the U.K. in February. The company will likely continue to expand this rollout to other countries.
Track mode enables a more accurate GPS map, down to the exact lane you’re running in. When you fire up an “outdoor run,” the screen prompts you to select your lane, which results in more precise distance measurements.
Apple’s track mode can even detect how many lanes are on the particular track you’re using, though it’s unclear how its capabilities hold up when you have to switch or meander across lanes, as one is wont to do on a crowded community track. The curves can be difficult for GPS to gauge, so track mode enables a more accurate pace reading.
Apple’s track mode differs from that of other watch brands in that it uses Apple Maps data, whereas competitors use a learning algorithm to detect a running track. And an Apple Watch detects the moment you step onto a track, while other watches require running two laps before the device can pair with the surface.
This is another step suppress into the running space by Apple, which has previously lacked some running-centric features compared to stalwarts in the watch industry, like Garmin and Coros. As Apple continues expanding its watch’s capabilities—and releasing athlete-specific watches like the The Best Advanced GPS Watches for Runners—Running Shoes & Gear.
Abby Carney is a writer and journalist in New York. A former D1 college runner and current amateur track athlete, she's written about culture and characters in running and outdoor sports for Runner's World, Best Folding Treadmills, Published: Apr 25, 2023 12:00 PM EST, and other outlets. She also writes about things that have nothing to do with running, and was previously the editor of a food magazine.
