NOKIA UPGRADES MAPS, INTEGRATES WITH OVI

Nokia has upgraded its mobile mapping and navigation service Nokia Maps, as well as its personalized online mapping experience on Ovi by Nokia. Nokia Maps now include high-resolution aerial images, 3D landmarks for 216 cities, and terrain maps, as well as a new route overview during routing and during Drive, the purchasable turn-by-turn car navigation guidance. The higher quality of maps can be attributed to the relationship between Nokia and NAVTEQ. The level of detail in the maps has increased to the point that users can view multiple entrances to the same underground metro station. Nokia Maps now also offers instant access to real time information such as camera alerts, safety spots, and traffic information for selected countries, as well as Wcities event guides providing real-time information for events and movies in over 450 destinations. Nokia Maps plus Ovi allows people to plan their journey at home on their PC and synchronize with their mobile, giving access to pre-planned routes and favorite destinations while on the move. The new version of the Nokia Maps application for selected devices is available on the Nokia Beta Labs. Additionally, the online version will be accessible at maps.ovi.com. -Smarajit Dasgupta