Finnish phone maker Nokia has released its “Here” maps app for iOS, and while it might be more helpful than Apple Maps in some regards, we’re still holding out hope that Google Maps will arrive soon.
Nokia announced that its Here Maps for iOS about a week ago. The app offers public transportation info, voice-guided walking directions, and the ability to create personal maps. Here also offers maps that you can download and later access in offline mode.
Unfortunately, through a bit a testing, Here maps aren’t that impressive and don’t appear to be much better than Apple Maps except for offering public transportation directions inside the app. One thing that knocks down a lot of points in my book is the app’s sluggish performance. Zooming in on an area sometimes takes seconds to register even over a decent Wi-Fi connection. Additionally, compared to Apple and Google’s offering, Here Maps look bland and do not offer differentiate streets and various landmarks with enough coloring.
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Thankfully Google Maps should be on the way soon as long as Apple approves the app. If Apple does approve, we expect Google Maps to be back on iOS before the end of the year.
If you so choose, you can download Nokia Maps in the iOS App Store now.
Photo credit: Nokia
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