Nokia joined Google Maps as the local search and navigation supplier to Toyota Europe. By early 2014 Toyota will integrate Nokia's vendor-neutral Here mapping platform into cars that the giant manufacturer delivers into Europe, Russia and the Middle East.
 |
|
Nokia's Here mapping platform will be in Toyota Europe's cars starting in 2014. |
Nokia said that the agreement with Toyota Europe will see it implement its "Here Local Search for Automotive" into Toyota's Touch & Go navigation and infotainment system. Drivers with access to Nokia's Here service will be able to access maps and community generated content, including ratings, reviews and images from thousands of sources, according to a Nokia statement. Nokia unveiled the Here platform in November.
Of note, Toyota Europe said it plans to collaborate with Nokia to understand what services can be added to the mapping platform, including "best-in-class content."
Toyota Europe's general manager for telematics and multimedia, Derek Williams, said that Nokia's location platform was an interesting proposition. "It is an excellent basis for creative location-centric concepts and we are delighted to bring this technology to our customers," he said.
However, Nokia will still need to compete with Google. "In the current navigation systems we have Google Local search which will be complemented by Nokia Places from 2014," a Toyota spokesman told ZDNet.
Nokia already supplies Toyota with automotive-grade maps and reference data, but this latest deal will see its Here platform integrated further into Toyota's in-car Touch & Go technology.
The Nokia mapping and search software, which will be formally rebranded as Here starting next quarter, is fast gaining ground in the automotive industry by already securing contracts with Audi, BMW Chrysler, Dacia, ESRI, Ford, Garmin, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes, Nikon, Pioneer, Scania, Toyota and Volkswagen, according to ZDNet.
For more:
- see this Nokia release
- see this ZDNet article
- see this TheNextWeb article
Related Articles:
Nokia Maps goes head-to-head against Android and iPhone
Nokia unveils cloud-based location service 'Here'
Apple's mapping fiasco is trivial, its future is not
Nokia scoops up European emergency location deal with Ford
EU: Mobile operators need to upgrade networks to support eCall
Vodafone Germany scoops BMW M2M deal