Nokia has just revealed a new cloud-based location service that works across multiple devices and platforms. Entitled “Here”, the web-based service will spread its wings to Mac and PC, iOS and Android, accessible via compatible browsers.
Built on HTML5, the cloud-based offering will run on iOS 4+ and Android 2.2 and above. A free iOS app has already been submitted to the App Store, and is expected to be available in the ‘next couple of weeks.’ Nokia will make available a Here SDK for Android and a web version for Firefox OS by early next year.
In conjunction with the new service, Nokia has launched Here.net, the official site. The site enables user submissions to integrate into Nokia’s own official map offering. This is expected to offer even more effective offline mapping experience.
Maps will contain Nokia original maps, satellite photos, live traffic information and transit directions.
Engadget reports that the iOS app will also provide offline maps, guided walking directions and public transportation.
In the fracas pertaining to the much-loathed Apple Maps, Apple CEO Tim Cook, in a recent apology to its users, actually mentions Nokia Maps as an alternative to its own maps system, “While we are improving Maps.”
Additionally, Nokia also revealed the name for the technology powering its City Lens app. It’s called LiveSight – a 3D map technology that Nokia claims “provides the most precise and intuitive augmented reality experience.”
Source: Engadget
[ad#Google Adsense 336×280]
