14 DAY TRIAL // Vodafone and Google announced their intention to develop a location-based version of Google Maps for mobile phones. Google Maps will be available as a downloadable Java application and will offer Vodafone's customers easy-to-use maps and local listings, as well as search and navigation capabilities.
"Vodafone sees Google Maps as a new milestone in the relationship that both companies are developing. It is a prime example of how Vodafone, through its location service and distribution scale, can complement Google's products and unlock mass-market access to exciting services," said Frank Rovekamp, Global Chief Marketing Officer of Vodafone.
The announcement comes as Vodafone is introducing search capabilities in various markets, by integrating Google technology into its mobile service. Launched in Hungary in December 2006, the search service is scheduled to be rolled out in other key European markets throughout the rest of the year. Forming part of Vodafone's multimedia portal, Vodafone live! search technology from Google will enable customers to access both on-portal and off-portal sites on the Internet. The integration of Google technology also means an enhanced Internet experience, making off-portal pages more accessible and relevant for handset screen sizes. Customers will therefore only be presented with services, such as games, that are compatible with their handsets.
"Our goal as a company is to help people find information they're looking for, so giving Vodafone customers the chance to find out where they are going while on the move is a very important step. Google Maps for mobile gives people an easy way of finding directions via a mobile phone. I am delighted that Vodafone intends to offer it to their customers. It is one example of how our two companies are working together on technology that helps people manage information online and on the go," said Nikesh Arora, Vice President, EMEA Operations, Google.