Nokia is preparing to release versions of its mapping application for the Android and iOS platforms. Nokia executive Sean Fernback told The Wall Street Journal the apps will offer features not available to Google Maps and Apple Maps.
For example, Nokia Maps users will be able to download maps of cities, regions, or states so they may be used when offline. This is a hallmark feature of Nokia’s HERE Maps for Windows Phone. Nokia believes its offline maps will draw users away from Google and Apple’s alternatives. The offline maps will support searches, as well.
“I’m convinced people are looking for alternatives,” said Fernback. “Google Maps is a good solution for many, their maps work very well, but it has looked the same and done the same for a long time.” Nokia released a version of its HERE Maps for iOS back in 2012, but later pulled the app after it received poor reviews.
Nokia plans to release the new Android and iOS mapping apps before the end of the year. Nokia sold its handset business to Microsoft earlier this year, but retained ownership of its mapping business.
