Building Apple Watch apps and running Watchletic with Viktor Hesselbom

If you've got an Apple Watch and want to train better with it — or if you're a developer who's thinking of creating watch apps on the side, this episode is a must-watch!

This week, we're thrilled to have Viktor Hesselbom in our virtual studio. Viktor is the mastermind behind Watchletic, an innovative Apple Watch app specifically designed for runners and cyclists.

As a runner and cyclist myself, I couldn’t wait to dive into Victor’s journey, his inspirations, and the future he envisions for wearables and fitness tech.

Running: More Than Just Exercise

Viktor kicked off our conversation by sharing a unique perspective on running. For him, it's not just about physical fitness; it's a mental workout too. "I get a lot of solutions from running," Viktor confesses.

The rush of endorphins fuels his brain, often leading to breakthrough ideas and solutions. By the time he sits down at his computer, he’s ready to code, needing just a fraction of the time he might otherwise spend.

This blend of physical activity and mental clarity is a testament to the power of exercise in sparking creativity.

The Birth of Watchletic

Viktor’s journey into the world of Apple Watch apps began rather serendipitously. Initially intrigued by the technical challenge of developing for such a compact device, his first foray was a simple game.

Despite its modest success, it sparked a realization that there was untapped potential in this niche. His interest eventually pivoted from gaming to utility-driven apps, inspired by his own needs as a runner.

Watchletic was born out of a personal necessity. Frustrated by the lack of interval training features on existing Apple Watch apps, Viktor decided to build his own solution.

Little did he know that this personal project would resonate with a broader audience, highlighting a gap in the market that many runners and cyclists were eager to fill.

Building in Public: The Power of Community

Viktor’s approach to developing Watchletic is a fascinating blend of innovation and community engagement. With a background as a game developer, he initially focused on unique controls and user experience.

However, as feedback from users poured in, he shifted his focus to adding practical features, driven by user requests and real-world needs.

A significant part of Viktor’s success can be attributed to his savvy use of platforms like Reddit and Twitter. By engaging with niche communities and directly responding to user inquiries, he’s built a loyal user base.

This strategy not only aids in marketing but also serves as a valuable feedback loop, allowing Viktor to continuously refine and enhance Watchletic.

The Challenges and Joys of Apple Watch Development

Developing for the Apple Watch is not without its quirks. Viktor candidly shares the challenges he’s faced, from debugging complex issues to dealing with limited processing power.

Yet these challenges are also part of the appeal. The constraints of the Apple Watch push developers to innovate within tight parameters, resulting in creative solutions that might not emerge in less restricted environments.

Viktor also appreciates the simplicity of design required for the Apple Watch. With limited screen space, there’s less need for elaborate designs, allowing him to focus on functionality and user experience.

The Future of Wearables and Fitness Tech

As our conversation wrapped up, we touched on the future of wearables and the potential role of AI in this space. While AI wasn’t initially part of Viktor’s plan, he acknowledges the exciting possibilities it presents.

From personalized training plans to real-time performance analysis, AI could revolutionize how we interact with fitness technology.

For now, Viktor remains focused on expanding Watchletic’s capabilities and reaching an even broader audience. His journey from game developer to fitness tech innovator is a testament to the power of passion and persistence.

Whether you’re a runner, a cyclist, or simply someone interested in the intersection of technology and fitness, Viktor’s story is sure to inspire.

Stay tuned to Ship It and Sip It for more exciting interviews and insights from the world of tech innovation. And who knows? Maybe this conversation will inspire you to lace up your running shoes and let the endorphins infuse your next big idea!