Google brings offline maps back to Android, kind of (Update: More countries get navigation too)

When Google released a new version of Google Maps for Android yesterday, it was quickly discovered that offline mapping support had been removed. You could kind of turn it back on by typing "OK Maps" into the app's search field, but the lack of a dedicated button had users up in arms. Today, Google is announcing that it's adding a "Make this map area available offline" button and that it's rolling out globally later today. There's also a new clickable item in the sidebar called "Where's Latitude?" that'll remind you the service is shutting down on August 9th. Despite these changes, we still can't help but compare the app to Nokia's Here Maps for Windows Phone, which puts particular focus on offline navigation.

Update: According to Android Police, a new button isn't the only new thing in Google Maps. Navigation support has been added to an additional 19 countries, including Taiwan and Thailand.

Source: Google Maps (Google Plus), Android Police

Tags: android, google, GoogleMaps, mobilepostcross

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By: Unknown On 10:04 PM

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Toyota signs deal to get Nokia's Here Local Search on its in-car navigation units from 2014

HERE Platform from Nokia Powers Toyota Motor Europe's Next Generation of Navigation and Infotainment Systems

Toyota is the Latest Major Automotive Brand to Leverage Best-in-Class Nokia Mapping Technology using its Local Search for Automotive

Espoo, Finland - Nokia today announced that Toyota Motor Europe is the latest automotive brand to select the HERE platform's Nokia Local Search for Automotive to power its next generation Touch & Go navigation and infotainment systems. Nokia Local Search for Automotive is a specifically designed solution developed to fulfill the requirements of the automotive industry.

By leveraging Nokia Local Search for Automotive, Toyota drivers will have fast and easy online access to the latest high-quality industry mapping information and community-generated content - including millions of ratings, reviews and images fed directly into their cars.

The introduction of this service demonstrates how Nokia's HERE business is continuing to extend its industry-leading portfolio of products to meet the needs of its automotive customers.

"The ability to deliver comprehensive and driver-relevant content tailored to automotive requirements makes the Nokia Location Platform an interesting proposition," said Derek Williams, General Manager, Telematics & Multimedia, Toyota Motor Europe. "It is an excellent basis for creative location-centric concepts and we are delighted to bring this technology to our customers. Nokia Local Search for Automotive is expected to be commercially available in Toyota systems from early 2014 in Europe, Russia and the Middle East."

Moving forward, Toyota Motor Europe will collaborate with Nokia to study more services that leverage the Nokia Location Platform, including best-in-class content. Nokia is currently the leading company providing end-to-end mapping, navigation and location solutions for the automotive industry.

"Nokia and Toyota share the same vision of what the in-vehicle location experience should be - immersive, always on. Today's announcement underlines Nokia's commitment to providing fresh content and services to the auto industry so it can deliver innovative consumer solutions," said Eric Fumat, Vice President Sales & Business Development EMEA, Nokia Location & Commerce.

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By: Dilusha On 6:28 PM

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