At present, Google Maps It is one of the few quality navigation and map services that manages to have a large number of users in Android. Its biggest rivals in terms of quality are on other platforms. But the arrival of Nokia Here to Android It could change everything Microsoft seems to have among its plans the launch of the map and browser service for Android.
Microsoft has a way of working that for some might be strange but that has always been a classic of the Redmond company. They release their programs even for platforms they haven't developed. We've seen it in the past with Office for Mac, and currently with versions of Office for Android and iOS. Well, this is what they intend to do with some high-quality Nokia services that until now were not available for Android, as is the case with Nokia Here, the map and navigation service developed by the Finnish company. This cross-platform approach fits with its strategy of bringing key software to where users are.
Until recently, only Google Maps was available for both Google's main platform, Android, and Apple's platform, iOS. However, it now appears to be available as well Nokia Here would be available in the near future for Android and iOS, as well as for Windows Phone. We know this from the publication of two job offers on LinkedIn in which the American company is looking for a experienced software engineer in the distribution of applications on Google Play and the App Store, as well as in the development of these applications.
These applications will probably not take too long to arrive either. It is well known that Nokia has to count on android developers, who have worked on the new Nokia X. In addition, for these smartphones it is already available Nokia Here, so it's obvious that the maps and navigation service already has its version for Android. It still remains to be converted into a standalone app, which does not depend on the rest of the ecosystem, and launch it on Google Play.
Already in the past we had the opportunity to analyze the advantages of Google Maps with respect to services like Nokia Here and Apple Maps. Plus, Google has an advantage because it's its own platform. Although you never know, Microsoft will want to capture to a group of users.
What is Nokia Here (HERE WeGo) and why it matters on Android
Nokia Here, known in its evolution as Here WeGo, is a mapping and navigation app designed to guide local and global travelers on everyday or unfamiliar journeys. Its offering combines a clear interface with step-by-step directions, and the option to get around by car, on foot, or by public transport. It also includes quick access to frequently visited locations and collections to save favorite sites with a more organized touch.
One of its differentiating points is the possibility of adding waypoints to the routes to customize the tour, as well as the find function parking at your destination and receive direct guidance to the location. This practical guidance reduces detours and downtime, and provides a plus compared to alternatives that don't prioritize these benefits.
Key features: navigation, transportation, and map layers
The app offers turn-by-turn navigation with voice and precise directions for drivers, guide of walk step by step and planning in public transport in over 1.900 cities around the world. When you select your destination, you'll see the estimated time, distance, and traffic conditions, with the route clearly overlaid. The screen displays the speed limit and your current speed, to help you not exceed it.
Its layers include classic map and road views, real time traffic and representation 3D buildings in selected cities. Although its cartography may be less extensive in commercial data than others, it stands out for showing street numbering, something very useful in large municipalities. It also has a search engine points of interest and a bookmarks notebook to manage favorites.
In driving, the design is sober and easy to follow, with a highlighted trajectory that changes color depending on traffic and two information panels: one with the next maneuver and another with distance, time, and estimated time of arrival. While these provide clarity, they can take up screen space in some vehicles. This is not possible in some versions. change route once chosen, a limitation to consider.
For those who get easily disoriented, the satellite view and the top-down view helps you locate yourself better. You can avoid this in settings tolls or unpaved roads, activate/deactivate voice guidance and switch between map and satellite, allowing you to tailor the experience to each trip.
Offline maps and international coverage
No connection, no problem: you can download maps by region, country or continent and navigate completely offline. This is perfect for moving around remote areas or avoiding transportation costs. roaming abroad. It is also possible to download voice packs additional for the browser and keep the indications when there is no data.
Offline map coverage reaches more than 100 countries (including the US, UK, Germany, France, Spain, Italy or Canada), while the information of traffic and transportation in real time is available in more than 900 cities around the world, with a presence in major urban areas in Europe and the United States. This combination of coverage and local downloading offers a reliable experience both in the city and on the highway.
Android Auto and in-car user experience
To use it in the car, simply install the app from Google Play on your phone: when you sync it with your vehicle it will appear in Android Auto. It is recommended to grant permissions (such as location), set up frequent places and download maps of the area you are traveling in. The app automatically adapts the day/night mode and is compatible with the interface Coolwalk, being able to share screen with music or messaging.
Navigation is intuitive: You enter your destination while stationary or by voice while driving, and the system suggests routes with times, distances, and traffic. Among the strong points are the clarity of the map, the option to satellite view and offline stability. Among the drawbacks, its Real-time information It may be less comprehensive than solutions with large communities (it does not allow reporting incidents), and sometimes there may be small discrepancies in recent layouts.
Additional services, partners and ideas in development
HERE collaborates with partners to enrich the experience with more points of interest and services en route: GetYourGuide, TripAdvisor, BlaBlaCar, Expedia, Car2Go, Wikipedia or HotelsCombined, among others. Thanks to these integrations you will find Nearby POIs such as ATMs, restaurants, bars, parking, gas stations, car sharing, taxi stops, pharmacies, or car rentals and tours.
The company is working on expanding the ways you can get around, including bicycle and carsharing, and in services to enjoy during the journey, such as hotel reservation and parking. They also plan tools to discover places of common interest and organize trips with other people. If you want to try new things first, you can join versions beta and send suggestions directly to the team at appsupport@here.com.
With this approach, Nokia Here/HERE WeGo offers a solid alternative to Google Maps: reliable offline maps, clear navigation and practical utilities such as collections, intermediate points, parking guidance and compatibility with Android Auto, with the logical room for improvement in real-time traffic accuracy and collaborative features. Source: Linked In (1), Linked In (2).