Nokia Maps Arrives On iOS & Android (But Only As A Web App)

Nokia has just announced the launch of an iOS and Android-compatible version of its mapping service known as Nokia Maps. The service, which powers Nokia’s native mapping applications on its own devices, has not arrived as a native iOS and Android app, however, but as a HTML5-based web service available at m.maps.nokia.com.

In addition to basic mapping, Nokia Maps provides navigation support, through separate sets of directions for those who are driving, walking or taking public transport. There are also audio directions available, but for now, these are only offered when you’re on foot.

In early tests, it seems that the resolution of the online maps offering isn’t comparable to what you’ll get with a native application like Google Maps on iOS or Android, but the service itself was solid enough. It even has a nice, British-sounding man who prompts you to “start your journey,” which would make driving to a store feel like an adventure, I have to admit.

Nokia Maps, you’ll remember, became core to Microsoft’s mapping service when the companies aligned their mobile strategies in early 2010. That’s why it’s now interesting to see the company attempt expansion to other non-Microsoft platforms. However, if Nokia really wants to compete with Google Maps (and perhaps Apple’s own forthcoming mapping service), it will need release a native version that more seamlessly integrates with users’ phones and tablets. A web-based version of Nokia Maps would be a good first step towards that goal, though.

The new web app works on iPhone, iPad or Android (2.3+) device, and is accessible from m.maps.nokia.com.

Nokia is a Finnish multinational communications corporation. It is primarily engaged in the manufacturing of mobile devices and in converging Internet and communications industries. They make a wide range of mobile devices with services and software that enable people to experience music, navigation, video, television, imaging, games, business mobility and more. Nokia is the owner of Symbian operation system and partially owns MeeGo operating system.