5 Things You Need to Know About The Outsiders' Biggest Update and Apple Design Award Nomination

Introduction

Just days after receiving a prestigious 2026 Apple Design Award nomination in the Interaction category, the popular fitness app The Outsiders has unleashed its most significant update to date. This massive rollout introduces Home Screen widgets, expanded workout import capabilities, fresh metrics, and a suite of new exercise types. For users and fitness enthusiasts, these changes promise a more personalized and seamless experience. Below, we break down the five key aspects of this update and what they mean for you.

5 Things You Need to Know About The Outsiders' Biggest Update and Apple Design Award Nomination — Source: 9to5mac.com

1. The Apple Design Award Nomination: What It Means

The Outsiders was nominated for a 2026 Apple Design Award in the Interaction category—a nod to its intuitive and engaging user interface. This recognition highlights the app's commitment to smooth navigation, responsive controls, and thoughtful design. Being shortlisted for such an award not only validates the team's approach but also signals to users that they are using an app that meets Apple's highest standards of quality. The nomination itself came shortly before the update, suggesting that the developers were already planning this major leap, and the award buzz only amplified the excitement. For fitness app enthusiasts, this nomination is a strong indicator that The Outsiders is a worthy contender in the crowded wellness space. Expect more polished interactions and fluid transitions as the team continues to refine the experience.

2. Home Screen Widgets: At-a-Glance Fitness Tracking

One of the standout features of this update is the introduction of Home Screen widgets. Now, users can add customizable widgets directly to their iPhone or iPad Home Screen, providing instant access to key workout stats, recent activity summaries, and daily goals without even opening the app. These widgets come in multiple sizes—small, medium, and large—allowing you to choose how much information you want to display. For example, a small widget might show today's step count, while a large one could include a full week's progress chart. This convenience is a game-changer for users who prefer glanceable data, reducing the friction of launching the app repeatedly. The widgets are also compatible with iOS 16's lock screen, though the update focuses primarily on Home Screen placement. By bringing fitness data to the foreground, The Outsiders turns your home screen into a personal dashboard.

3. Expanded Workout Import Options: Seamless Data Syncing

The update greatly expands workout import options, making it easier than ever to bring in data from other fitness platforms. Whether you use a smartwatch, a cycling computer, or a different running app, The Outsiders now supports imports from a wider range of sources. This includes popular formats like FIT, GPX, TCX, and direct connections to cloud services such as Apple Health, Strava, and Garmin. The process is streamlined: just select your file or connect your account, and the app automatically parses the data, including duration, distance, elevation, and heart rate. This feature is especially valuable for users who switch devices or want to consolidate their history into one central hub. The expanded compatibility eliminates data silos, ensuring no workout goes uncounted. The developers have also improved error handling, so problematic files are flagged with clear messages instead of cryptic errors.

4. New Metrics and Additional Workout Types: Deeper Insights

To help users better understand their performance, The Outsiders adds a set of new metrics alongside several fresh workout types. On the metrics front, look for advanced measures like power output estimation, cadence analysis (for runs and cycles), and recovery time recommendations. These numbers are derived from existing sensors but presented in a more actionable way. For example, after a ride, you'll see an estimated functional threshold power (FTP) trend, and runners can check their stride length and ground contact time if sensor data is available. Complementing these metrics, the update introduces workout types such as indoor rowing, functional fitness, and dance cardio. For rowing, the app now tracks stroke rate and split time; for functional fitness, you can log rounds and reps for exercises like burpees or kettlebell swings. This expansion makes the app more versatile, appealing to athletes who cross-train or prefer nontraditional activities.

5. How to Get the Update and What's Next

The update is now available as a free download on the App Store for all current users. To get it, simply visit the Updates tab on your App Store app, or enable automatic updates to ensure you don't miss it. The new features require iOS 16 or later and work best on recent iPhone models for sensor compatibility. There is no in-app purchase needed—the improvements are part of the core app, which is commendable given the extent of the changes. Looking ahead, the team has hinted at even more to come, including community challenges and deeper Apple Watch integration (likely leveraged from the award nomination feedback). With this update, The Outsiders solidifies its position as a leading fitness companion, combining award-worthy design with functional innovation. Whether you're a casual walker or a marathon runner, these tools offer something to elevate your routine.

Conclusion

The Outsiders' biggest update yet, released on the heels of its Apple Design Award nomination, brings a wealth of improvements that cater to modern fitness needs. From Home Screen widgets that save taps to expanded import options that unify your data, and from insightful new metrics to fresh workout types, the app has evolved into a more robust platform. The nomination in the Interaction category underscores the team's dedication to user-centric design, and this update proves they are listening to their community. If you haven't tried The Outsiders recently, now is the perfect time to download it and experience these enhancements firsthand. For current users, the changes are a welcome boost that will make your daily tracking feel smarter and smoother. Keep an eye on future releases—if this update is any indication, the best is yet to come.

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