Nokia Takes Maps 2.0 For A Walk

Nokia's Maps 2.0 aims to put an end to printed maps for pedestrians, putting turn-by-turn maps and directions on mobile phone screens.

Nokia has unveild a beta version of Maps 2.0, a new digital mapping application for its Series 60 and Series 40 mobile devices that aims to make those awkward paper maps a thing of the past for pedestrians, just as in-vehicle GPS systems have eliminated awkward paper-folding for drivers. The new services puts step-by-step, turn-by-turn directions on mobile phone screens just like in-vehicle systems, with the twist that Maps 2.0 offers a pedestrian focus, along with city guides, satellite imagery, and a sleek user interface.

“By taking navigation services out of the car and onto the sidewalk, Nokia is enabling people to explore and discover what’s around them with the confidence of a local,” said Nokia’s VP pf location based services Michael Halbherr, in a statement. “By combining the integrated compass of the Nokia 6210 Navigator, with the speed and accuracy of assisted GPS, Nokia Maps 2.0 provides a unique experience with which other less accurate mobile navigation applications can’t compete.”

Maps 2.0 will work with GPS receivers integrated into a phone, or can be used wth an external GPS module and a compatible device. The service provides turn-by-turn directions oriented towards pedestrians along with information on a user’s current location, including details on streets, parks (and paths through parks!), surrounding buildings, and (on newer handsets) can even indicate which direction the user is walking. Maps 2.0 will also enable users to optionally purchase “first-class” multimedia guides to their current locations from companies like Berlitz, featuring photos, videos, and audio streams to enhance a trip through a given location. Maps 2.0 can also lead users to the nearest transit stations using localized information for 17 cities.

Nokia plans to bring Maps 2.0 to the mass market on a Series 40 device during the first half of 2008, but users with appropriate hardware can check out a beta version now from the Nokia Beta Labs Web site.