Ovi Maps free on Nokia smartphones
Nokia announced late last week its plans to make walk and drive navigation free on its smartphones as part of a new version of Ovi Maps, available for download for 10 Nokia handsets, including N97, 5800 and E72, with more smartphones expected to be added in the coming weeks.
From March 2010, the new GPS-enabled smartphones will include the new version of Ovi Maps, pre-loaded with local country map data, with high-end walk and drive navigation and access to Lonely Planet and Michelin travel guides at no extra cost. In the meantime, current owners of the brand's compatible smartphones can download maps free from the website.
International access
The brand's mapping and navigation software has been specifically designed for mobile use and is based on unique hybrid technology. The new version of the maps will include all essential car and pedestrian navigation features, such as turn-by-turn voice guidance for 74 countries in 46 languages, and traffic information for over 10 countries, as well as detailed maps for over 180 countries.
"We want to make using your mobile for navigation as familiar as sending text or taking a picture. We believe that making the best maps with voice guided navigation available for free will be the catalyst to do this," explained Anssi Vanjoki, executive vice president, Nokia. "Why have multiple devices that work in only one country or region? Put it all together, make it free, make it global and you have something that is truly useful and can help you get round almost any city in the world whether you're on foot or driving."
Key features
Data transmission charges may apply depending on the network. For more details go to www.nokia.com/maps.
