A series of patents filed by Apple Computer today, and uncovered by Apple Insider, suggest that Apple is working on enhancements to the iPod to make is a “lifestyle” companion. Based on the patents Apple appears to be working on ways to have the iPod monitor the health and exercise of the user via new programming and new peripheral monitoring devices that may attach to the body or use motion detection to keep track of walking and other exercise routines.

Although lifestyle contraptions are nothing new, Apple appears to have some clever social networking ideas up it’s virtual sleeve as well. For example one module will allow users to challenge others to competitions:

“A rewards system of the present invention also can permit a user to challenge one or more users to a competition. Based on data about the competitors’ activities and user-defined allocation parameters, the rewards system can automatically distribute rewards to the user account(s) of victorious competitor(s).”

This social networking aspect of the new Apple system could be a milestone in using online social networking for health purposes, though it remains to be seen if building online health relationships will really lead most to health and happiness.