New 'Steps' App Shows Deep HealthKit Integration
A new app called Steps has launched, showcasing a seamless integration with Apple Health. The app automatically visualizes real-time HealthKit data with progress rings and hourly charts, requiring no manual input and serving as a model for modern mobile health app development.
The "Steps: Workout & Pedometer" app is the work of solo developer Hieu Dinh, an indie hacker who has also created other utilities for Apple platforms. The app distinguishes itself by not requiring an account and storing all health data locally on the user's device, ensuring privacy. This approach simplifies the backend infrastructure, as there are no external servers handling user health information. The application reads a wide array of data types from HealthKit to provide its comprehensive tracking features. This includes not just step counts, but also data for over 23 different workout types, such as running, cycling, hiking, and yoga. For activities like running, it pulls real-time metrics including pace, distance, heart rate, and elevation. For on-the-go tracking, the app features a native watchOS component that syncs with the main iOS application. This allows for real-time display of workout data on the Apple Watch. The synchronization of streak and goal history between the iPhone and Apple Watch ensures that progress rings and charts are consistently accurate across both devices. The app requires iOS 17.0 or later and watchOS 10.0 or later. To enhance user engagement and provide at-a-glance information, the app offers eight different types of home screen widgets. It also supports features like GPX export for workout routes, allowing users to own and share their data. The developer has also implemented a unique "App Lock" feature, which can block access to other apps until the user achieves their daily step goal.
