Nokia counteracts Google, makes Ovi Maps voice navigation free

When Google Maps Navigation got introduced we were of course very positive about the idea. Having voice navigation for free is an unquestionable privilege, but it now seems long time leader in the mobile industry, Nokia, has wisely decided to follow suit and make its Ovi Maps turn-by-turn service available for free. We knew the company will be making an Ovi-related announcement today, but didn’t really expect it would be that cool. Starting now, ten of Nokia’s smartphones, including the N97 mini, 5800 XpressMusic and E72, have support for the new version of Ovi Maps that offers free walk and drive navigation. The manufacturer promises that more devices will be added to the list in the coming weeks.

In addition, all devices released after March 10 with build-in GPS will come preloaded with the new Ovi Maps and local country map data, along with Lonely Planet and Michelin travel guides, all for free.

In contrast to Google’s service, which is currently only available in the US, voice turn-by-turn guidance with Ovi Maps will support 74 countries in 46 languages, as well as traffic information for more than 10 countries. We feel it is more than a decent alternative to Google’s offering, having in mind it does not require you to have internet connection.

You can get the new Ovi Maps on your Nokia smartphone here.

source: Nokia