These shoes were made for walking, but that’s not all they’ll do. For the first time ever, Nike will turn sneakers into connected devices by adding its NikeConnect technology to the newly released AF1 NikeConnect QS NYC sneakers.
The new AF1 NikeConnect QS NYC sneakers will come with an NFC (near-field communication) chip embedded under a NikeConnect logo on the heel of the sneaker. By using the NikeConnect app on a phone, you can tap your phone on the sensor and gain access to exclusive content and Nike events in New York City, as well as an opportunity to purchase other popular Nike kicks.
The NikeConnect logo won’t be appearing on your favorite Nike sneakers just yet. The company is beta testing the prospect of adding NikeConnect to its footwear with a limited release of the AF1 NikeConnect QS NYC. Since this initiative is in its testing stage, only select NikePlus members in New York City will receive invitations to purchase a pair of AF1 NikeConnect QS NYC sneakers via Nike’s SNKRS app this month.
“Tests like this one with the AF1 NikeConnect QS NYC are critical building blocks as we deliver NikePlus members worldwide even more personalized services and experiences that are customized by the footwear and apparel they wear and love,” Sandra Carreon-John, global corporate communications director at Nike, emailed Digital Trends.
Nike debuted its NikeConnect technology in late September 2017 by adding a scannable NikeConnect logo to the bottom of NBA jerseys. Tapping your smart device on the NikeConnect logo on a jersey takes you to the designated page for that corresponding team, unveiling access to up-to-date game scores, curated highlight packages, limited=edition apparel, tickets, and even Spotify playlists.
This may be the first time Nike is putting NFC chips in its footwear, but others have also experimented with the technology. Adidas has been experimenting with placing NFC chips in its footwear since 2013, when the second-largest sportswear brand in the world did so with a limited number of its adidas Boost running shoes. Anyone with an NFC-enabled smart device was able to tap it on the “lace jewel” attached to the running shoe’s laces and get product information, as well as reviews of the product.
The next step of Nike footwear could be all in the taps.
Related Posts
Take $724.50 off this quiet portable inverter generator for home backup and camping
If you’ve been thinking about adding a small generator for power outages, camping trips, or tailgates, this discount is a serious nudge. This 2250W portable inverter generator is currently down to $275.49, a steep drop from its original $999.99, which means you’re saving $724.50 on a compact unit built for quiet, efficient backup power.
This app makes hiking so much easier — and it’s 50% off
Winter is the perfect time to audit your gear locker and plan for the season ahead. While we typically focus on upgrading physical items like boots, packs, and layers, digital tools have become just as essential for modern outdoor recreation. If you are looking to upgrade your navigation setup for 2026, this deal offers a very low barrier to entry. Right now, the AllTrails Plus membership is available for 50% off, dropping the price from $35.99 to just under $18 for the entire year when you use the code CYBER2025.
Go further, ride freely: How TENVELS is giving rise to the new leisure rider
This is exactly the moment TENVELS was made for.