By Mark Yeong

With the introduction of Global Positioning System (GPS) into Nokia S60 devices, Nokia Maps has become the default navigation tool that resides in most of its S60 enabled devices. Even as Nokia Nokia Maps 3.0 is being prepared to bring navigation to the next level, Nokia has released the beta version of Nokia Nokia Maps 3.0 available for download here (note: only certain models are currently supported).

Some improvements over the previous version include

- Maps can now be rotated
- In 3D view mode, you can tilt the view
- 2D/3D mode works with all map modes, i.e. with Map/Satellite/Terrain
- 3D landmarks for over 200 cities (can be displayed in 2D or 3D mode) - provide easier identification of buildings and structures
- Terrain map mode
- Enhanced car navigation* – lane assistance, speed limit warnings, improved sign post design and new ‘Route overview’ mode during navigation
- Enhanced pedestrian navigation* – shortcuts (virtual connections) in urban areas, straight line guidance for off-road terrain and beeps and vibrations before next turn
- My Places has option “Point me to” for any saved place/landmark, you the direction to that place on the map

In addition to the synchronization of Favorites and Collections with Ovi Maps and vice versa (use in online mode, enable Internet connection), you can now plan routings on Ovi Maps and synchronize to your device

* Please note that navigation requires a license to operate

3D Landmarks

One of the major highlights of this update is the availability of 3D landmarks. As the name implies, what you will be presented with is a 3D representation of the landmark at your location. This will provide for better identification of the area as well as the landmark which you are currently at or intending to embark towards.

Due to its current beta stage, the Nokia Maps 3.0 software wasn’t able to display the abovementioned 3D landmarks for our test maps. However, should you wish to view the 3D landmarks for other regions such as Singapore, you can do so with the online version of Nokia Maps on Ovi.com, which, by the way, is also in the beta stage.

Map Types

Other then having the aesthetically pleasing 3D landmarks on Maps, there is a new Map mode called “Terrain”, which you’ve probably guessed by now displays the map with the terrain imagery. This view adds on to the existing Map and Satellite modes. The addition of the Terrain mode does aid travelers in predicting the steepness of the terrain ahead. This would be a well-utilized feature for trekkers who need to know the layout of the land to plan their route with minimal hassle.

The new Terrain mode can be displayed in either the 2D or 3D perspective, and if you take a closer look, you’ll notice the unevenness in the surface shown on both the maps.

Comparing this to the regular Map in 2D and 3D perspective, and you’ll notice the amount of details added with the Terrain mode to enhance the mapping experience.

The Satellite / Hybrid mode (both in 2D and 3D perspective) has been introduced in Nokia Maps 2.0, and will stay on in the updated iteration. Do note that satellite imagery does require data download, hence take due care when you’re connected to an overseas cellular network via auto roaming services.

Syncing your favorites and routes

As per all Ovi services, you will be able to perform synchronization between Nokia Maps and Maps on ovi.com. To perform synchronization of your favorites and routes on your mobile device you need 2 things.

- Ovi.com account
- Nokia Nokia Maps 3.0 – beta

Once you have an account setup, load up Nokia Maps 3.0 on your mobile phone and navigate to the settings screen.

Options > Tools > Settings > Synchronization

Here you can input your login information for ovi.com and perform a synchronization of the information (Nokia Maps favorites and routes) stored on ovi.com servers as well as those stored on your mobile phone.

Once done you should see those items reflect both on Maps on ovi.com and Maps in your mobile phone.

Getting Nokia Nokia Maps 3.0 Beta

Installation of Nokia Maps 3.0 is simple, just download the following files from here.

There are 2 files to download, namely:

- Nokia Maps Updater
- Nokia Maps Loader 3.0

The updater will install Nokia Maps 3.0 into you mobile phone. After launching Nokia Maps Updater,  connect your mobile phone via PC suite, follow the instructions and Nokia Maps 3.0 will be loaded into the phone (certain compatible models only).

Nokia Map Loader 3.0 allows you to download the maps of various countries for offline use, just select the continent or specific country to download the necessary Maps into the phone. Once downloaded, the specific maps for these countries will be available without the need to retrieve the maps via data connections on the go.

Final Thought

Nokia Maps is an enjoyment to use and comes with free maps to boot. However, with a cost pegged to navigation, Nokia Maps 3.0 would only serve in the capacity of just a map, minus the guidance that comes with the navigation license.

I did enjoy the new 3D landmarks as it gives a better picture and perspective to my location; finding buildings would be less of a hassle and of course not forgetting that it would also mean that I can easily orientate myself with the surroundings by identifying the surrounding landmarks.

Do note that Nokia Maps 3.0 is still in beta stage and comes with a few bugs and glitches such as discernible lag during map loading and zooming. Furthermore, compatibility is still an issue here, with some phone models seemingly having problems loading the software. With that said, those interested in the new capabilities from Nokia Maps 3.0 can get a head start and try out the new navigation software from Nokia. Else, I would recommend that you wait for the final release before upgrading the existing Nokia Maps 2.0 which is now pre-loaded on most GPS-enabled S60 Nokia devices.