The HTML5 web app offers voice navigation for pedestrians

Mar 13, 2012 20:11 GMT  ·  By

Nokia’s renowned Maps service is available for the owners of Android and iOS devices as well, courtesy of an HTML5 flavor that Nokia made available for them last year.

Until then, Nokia Maps was available exclusively on handsets running under the Symbian platform. Today, it is also loaded on Windows Phone devices.

However, while Symbian and Windows Phone users can enjoy dedicated applications for Nokia Maps, the HTML5 web version of the Maps will have to do for Android and iOS users.

The web app arrives on these devices with both Mapping and Navigation features, and is now offering voice navigation as well.

To take advantage of the routing capabilities of the application, users will have to accept the sharing of their location with the Nokia Maps.

“Once you’ve loaded up the Nokia Maps page, your device will ask if it’s OK to access your location. If it’s precise mapping and routing you’re after, then you’ll need to accept this. But don’t worry, this is only used for routing purposes,” a post on Nokia Conversations notes.

At the top of the page, there is a search bar that enables users to easily find places and addresses. With a couple of clicks, you can have Nokia Maps pointing you to the specific location.

Those who would like to take advantage of the aforementioned voice navigation capabilities in Nokia Maps, will have to load an audio file that is nearly 2MB large.

“When you’re ready to start walking, just tap the route icon. Nokia Maps will now ask you if you want to use audio directions for your journey by loading an audio file of nearly 2MB,” the aforementioned post reads.

Android and iOS owners interested in voice navigation with Nokia’s Map web app should also consider using headsets while walking, so that they don’t miss any instruction.

“At the moment, the voice navigation only works for journeys where you’re on foot. And to make sure you’re planning a journey that way, the three icons at the top of the page will show you how you’re planning to travel. The image of the person walking is for walking journeys, obviously,” the blog entry explains.

The application also comes with support for driving routes and public transport. Moreover, it offers Map view (default); Satellite view, Public transport view; and Live traffic view.

All of these are available through the default browser on Android and iOS devices. All that users need to do to access them is to head to m.maps.nokia.com on the phone / tablet.

Photo Gallery (6 Images)

Nokia Maps on Android
Nokia Maps on AndroidNokia Maps on Android
+3more