Roadbud arrives!

Clear numbers while you run

We might have luxuriated in the perfect spring weather outside. Instead, we’ve been plinking away on the keyboard. Our time sweating over a hot compiler paid off.   Roadbud is here to make your run rock!

What’s Roadbud anyway? It’s an iPhone app for runners that measures pace and distance. Roadbud’s built with useful functionality like integrated iPod controls, audio status (in a lovely Glaswegian accent!), screen-lock, and plenty more.

The great big safety button is my favorite feature. My stomach knots up when my wife runs alone. Now she can email me her exact location (and call) with a quick button press.

We’re discovering other uses too. I spoke with a runner last week about “Roadbud 911″. She told me this function was a must-have – her epilepsy is a constant worry. Personally, I’m hoping nobody needs to use the safety button. Extra peace of mind allows runners to move faster.

Features are important, but only if they fit together smoothly. Runners can’t fidget with gizmos during a workout. We’re polishing the app with commando usability tests. I’ll continue to man some local races to watch runners using Roadbud. If you see our table, stop by.

We’re uploading the next version today (longer battery life, spoken status improvements). We’ll keep improving (and you’ll get free updates installed to your iPhone). If you have any ideas or complaints, email support@roadbud.com.

Price: Roadbud Rookie has everything you need to track your run – and it’s free. Roadbud Pro adds audio alerts, safety button, and integrated iPod controls. The Pro version costs $9.99 - less than a single entry fee and hundreds less than some other GPS devices. To celebrate our launch, we’re charging only $0.99 (today only).

If you like Roadbud, spread the love. Get the word out on twitter, email, or just tell your running friends.

Related posts:

1. Roadbud version 1.0 launch slip
2. Testing Roadbud in a drenchquake