Review – My indoor rowing machine has a heart rate function and I am always looking for a “just right” wearable heart rate transmitter. I tried chest straps and arm straps. But what if I can use what I have already worn: what about my Apple Watch? This is where Function101 Heartsync comes in.
What is it?
Apple Watch’s Heartsync is a battery-powered miniature device that can wirelessly receive the Apple Watch’s heart rate sensor and transmit the information to an ANT+ compatible exercise device.
The Heartsync app (iOS) will also record and record your exercises.
What’s in the box?
I received the Heartsync Pod, some double-sided tape, and a small card with a QR code to take you to the Apple App Store.
Hardware specifications
Dimensions: 2.25 inches x 1 inches
Weight: 13 grams
Battery: replaceable CR2032 battery (included), lasts for one year
Design and features
It is very small. Reminds me of a squashed car alarm, but lighter. There are no buttons or lights on the device.
There is a small coin slot at the bottom that allows you to pry open the box. A CR2032 battery can power the transmitter for one year.
set up
Have a Apps from the App Store You need to install it on iPhone.
Here is what should happen next: Heartsync is paired with Apple Watch via Bluetooth, and Heartsync relays this data to your exercise device via ANT+.
Then I started to pair my Apple Watch (Series 6) with HeartSync, but I couldn’t. As you can see on the screen (left), the signal remains at 0%. Why? Intuitively, I replaced the battery with a new one. Success (right)!
I should note that HeartSync does not need to be placed on your skin; I just took photos like this so that I can fit the Apple Watch into the frame.
The watch screen allows you to select the type of exercise, view history, current heart rate and other statistics, and even has the ability to send exercise summaries via email.
On the iPhone app, you can choose the type of exercise that the watch will display. Think of it as setting radio presets, because the watch screen is much smaller. You will notice that swimming or water activities are not on the list. Apple Watch is waterproof, but I personally don’t want to use it for swimming.
On my rowing machine, I chose the ANT+ HeartSync transmitter, and the screen reflects the heart rate of my Apple Watch. 
Performance
I am a little worried about whether I have to go through paired singing and dancing every time I exercise, so I narrowed down the steps to a few:
- Launch the HeartSync app on Apple Watch
- Press the HeartSync button (the top button of the application above the history)
- Select the red “Connect Now”
- Once connected, scroll down and select your workout. In the photo below, “Indoor Row”
- Depending on your device, you may need to enter the menu and select the ANT+ transmitter.
But where did it go? The last thing I wanted to do was to lose the little HeartSync, so I found a rope and hung it where I could find it. If I want to use it on different ANT+ compatible machines, I can take it with me.
I found the rope in the kitchen. This is the kind of turkey you dress up for Thanksgiving! You can also put it in your pocket, hang it on the key, and put it anywhere nearby. It doesn’t matter, because HeartSync is just a repeater: Apple Watch> HeartSync> Your Equipment.
what do I like
- Use your own Apple Watch to send your heart rate to your exercise device.
- HeartSync is small. If you use a different ANT+ compatible machine, please take it with you!
- Different exercise profiles, record saving options
- You don’t need to wear HeartSync. Just put it nearby.
What will i change
- It would be nice to have a way to measure battery life through the iPhone app or watch.
Final thoughts
When the Apple Watch’s Function101 HeartSync failed to sync due to a bad battery, I experienced about 30 seconds of frustration. After replacing the new battery, it works like a charm. Because I am used to my Apple Watch, it is undoubtedly the most comfortable wearable heart rate monitor I have tried with an indoor rowing machine. I found my new indoor rowing partner. Just make sure you have a new battery!
Price: 49.95 USD
Where to buy: Function 101
source: The sample of this product is made by Function 101
