Strava, the go-to app for active individuals, has just rolled out a series of significant updates that are set to elevate the user experience to new heights. These updates include a revolutionary new map rendering engine, enhanced route filtering, a redesigned Activity Details page, and the introduction of Strava Stickers.
Strava’s New 3D Mapping
One of the most exciting updates is Strava’s integration of a proprietary Map Rendering Engine (MRE), which leverages advanced mapping technology from FATMAP. This new engine brings lifelike 3D terrain, detailed satellite imagery, and additional map layers specifically designed for winter activities. Users can now gain deeper insights into avalanche gradients, general gradients, and aspect (the direction a slope faces), making it easier to plan and navigate various terrains.
With the MRE, Strava promises a more immersive and detailed mapping experience. You can explore these new maps in the Maps tab on the app, and they will even be available for previous activities. Strava plans to continue building on this technology, so users can look forward to even more map innovations in the future.
Enhanced Route Filtering
Strava has made it easier for users to find and manage their saved routes with new filtering and search capabilities. Subscribers can now search their Saved Routes by keyword or filter them by sport type, distance, elevation, route owner, or surface type. This update simplifies route planning, allowing athletes to quickly locate and prepare for their next workout.
Redesigned Activity Details Page
The Activity Details page has received a significant overhaul, now featuring an immersive, full-screen layout. This new design showcases your route, photos, and videos in a more engaging way, making it easier to view your best efforts and segment achievements. The page is now more visually appealing and user-friendly, providing a comprehensive overview of your activities.
Strava Stickers and Flyover Sharing
Strava users can now export Stat Stickers directly to Instagram Stories or download them for use on other platforms. This feature adds a fun and shareable element to your workout achievements, allowing you to easily showcase your progress and milestones on social media.
Additionally, Strava has updated its Flyover feature to include off-platform sharing capabilities. Subscribers can share their Flyover videos directly to Instagram Stories or via a shareable link for other platforms, making it simpler to share dynamic 3D replays of their activities.
AI-Powered Insights and Leaderboard Integrity
Strava has also enhanced its Athlete Intelligence feature, which is now out of beta. This AI-powered tool analyzes and summarizes key takeaways from your activities, including virtual run and ride data, power insights, and segment analysis. The feature has seen positive feedback from users, with over 80% finding it very helpful.
To ensure fair competition, Strava has improved its leaderboard integrity by using machine learning to identify unrealistic speeds, GPS errors, and other anomalies. This system automatically flags activities recorded in vehicles and prompts users to crop or make them private, ensuring that leaderboards reflect true athletic performances.
Progress Comparison
Another significant update is the ability to compare past efforts side-by-side. The progress summary chart now includes a comparison mode, allowing athletes to contrast recent activities against past time ranges of training. This feature enables deeper analysis and helps users uncover trends in their performance, making it easier to track improvements and work towards personal milestones and race goals.
Strava’s latest updates are a testament to the company’s commitment to enhancing the user experience and providing tools that are both functional and engaging. Whether you’re a runner, cyclist, or any other type of athlete, these new features are designed to help you plan, track, and share your activities with greater ease and precision.