Be it on a phone, a tablet, or a PC, Google Maps is immensely popular when it comes to location services. There's one worthy competitor to Google Maps, at least on the mobile platform, and that's from Nokia. The Finnish phone-maker's maps suite isn't a new kid on the block, it actually dates back to good-old Symbian days. Nokia's maps (now called Nokia Drive) received a shot in the arm when Nokia acquired NAVTEQ for $8 billion. NAVTEQ specialized in satellite navigation systems. Nokia now claims that apart from cellphones, its location service powers navigation systems on BMW, Mercedes, and Volkswagen's vehicles.

When it comes to just the map itself, there's not much to differentiate these two offerings - after all, basic mapping data, like network of roads, has been well documented for decades now. The difference lies is in the software's ability to help users find a place, and then help them navigate to that place. While we are working a full fledged comparison of the two platforms, here's a quick look at the features differences between these two platforms.

Price: Both, Google Maps and Nokia's maps are free.

Minimum Requirements: Google Maps mobile application is available for Android and iOS devices. The desktop version though can be accessed from any full fledged browser, but this isn't the easiest way to use the service. Besides, the browser version does not give you voice navigation either. Also, Google Maps relies heavily on an always-on data connection (an offline map can be downloaded, but you don't get directions or navigation with it).
On the other hand, Nokia Drive works only on Nokia's Lumia series. Needless to say, this is rather restrictive, but since we are comparing the services per se, let's move on. A siginificant difference between Google Maps and Nokia's location services is that the later's offering remains functional in offline mode. For example, you can use search places, plant routes, and avail voice guided navigation without using any data, if you have already downloaded appropriate map packs (free). This is a big plus considering the reliability (or lack of it) of 3G connection in most parts of India.

Navigation: Nokia Drive offers detailed turn-by-turn voice-guided navigation. The app allows you to choose voice instructions in over 50 languages including Hindi. Thanks to its ability to function in offline mode, it's basically as good as any standalone GPS systems found in sedans. In comparison, Google also provides voice guided turn-by-turn GPS navigation, but that needs a working data connection. From UI to sheer responsiveness, Drive is more convinient to use. Check out the comparison below:
 

 

Satellite Imaging
Both Nokia and Google maps cover each and every corner of our country. But when it comes to satellite view, Google has a clear edge. It's so detailed that you can zoom in and tag your own house. Its companion app, Street View is unfortuntely not available in India.

Location Sharing
Google allows you to share your location with your friends. The app lets you choose the level of detail you're comfortable with. Nokia's app doesn't offer similar functionality, so it's a clear win for Google when it's down to the social aspect of the maps.

 

Public Transit
The Nokia Transport app provides local public transport information to help you plan your journey, which comes in handy when you prefer not to use your car. Similarly, Google maps also offer information about busses and trains that will help you reach your destination. Here I'd say that both the services are equally useful.

Local Search (or places of interest)
Google as well as Nokia allows you to find nearby places of interest including hotels, tourist spots, and businesses. However, out of these two, Nokia maps coupled with City Lens takes the experience to a whole new level with the clever use of augmented reality. It's like having HUD (Heads Up Display) in real life. Check out the screenshot below to get a better idea of how it works.

 


All said and done, both the apps go head-to-head in terms of features. Google maps still provide great satellite imagery, places of interest, and a fun social aspect. However, if you're looking for voice-guided navigation, Nokia's offline service is unmatched.

Tags : Apps, Sat Nav, Google, Nokia