Nokia Giving Away Free Navigation App

Nokia has released a new version of Ovi Maps for many of its Symbian smartphones that includes free turn-by-turn directions for those who are driving or walking. Previously, this service came with a monthly fee, but not any more.

The new version of Ovi Maps includes high-end car and pedestrian navigation features, such as turn-by-turn voice guidance for 74 countries, in 46 languages, and traffic information for more than 10 countries, as well as detailed maps for more than 180 countries.

"Nokia is the only company with a mobile navigation service for both drivers and pedestrians that works across the world. Unlike the legacy car navigation manufacturers, we don't make you buy maps for different countries or regions even if you're only visiting for a few days," explained Anssi Vanjoki, Executive Vice President, Nokia. "We offer both navigation and maps free of charge, with all the high-end functionality and features that people now expect."

The Strategy
Today's move is part of Nokia's goal to lead the market in location-based services. This company believes that the next wave of growth will be centered on the location-aware, social Internet -- where people are doing things will be as important as what they are doing.

Nokia is going to face some strong competition in this area, though. Google has added many location-aware features to its Android OS, and this includes free navigation software.

Pricing and Availability
The latest version of Ovi Maps is available now for download at www.nokia.com/maps. It is free to download and use, and the maps are also free.

It is compatible with the Nokia X6, Nokia N97 mini, E72, E55, E52, Nokia 6730 classic, Nokia 6710 Navigator, Nokia 5800 Xpressmusic, Nokia 5800 Navigation Edition, Nokia 5230.

Starting in March, new Nokia 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. 

Video Demonstration
Nokia has prepared a video showing the new features of Ovi Maps:

Source: Nokia