Nokia Maps 2.0, free beta download

Nokia beta labs made the Maps 2.0 beta application available for download. Here are some of the news:

• ‘Drive’ – New car navigation feature. Interface has been updated and should be easier to read while driving. Views can be changed easily by clickling left or right. It’s also possible to plan multiple stops along a route.
• ‘Walk’ – Simply navigation by foot. This time they’ve stripped the voice navigation (which only made people turn their heads). Instead small ‘breadcrumbs’ are shown to guide you the right way. ‘Walk’ will be included in the drive navigation license but can also be purchased seperately.
• Did I mention Google-maps-style-satellite-view?
• Search is much improved, part of street names, places are typed in a search box, results are then listed in categories such as addresses, cities, restaurants etc.
• Landmarks have been replaced with Places. You’ll be able to save your places, create collections and even save routes.
• 3D mode has been improved, speed has also been improved.

Shortcut keys in the map

• Use * and # keys to zoom in and out in the map
• Use to 0 key to go to “My position”
• Use the 1 key to change map modes (2D, 3D, Satellite, Hybrid)

Shortcut keys in Drive mode

• The “grid” (options menu) layout imitates the keyboard. Items in the grid are also accessible directly through the keyboard.
• The same shortcuts are also available in Walk

Head over to Nokia Beta Labs and get your own free copy of Maps 2.0 Beta.

[Via: Nokia Press]