There are a variety of mapping apps available in Apple’s iTunes App Store, although by default Apple Maps are installed. However due to the snafu of the initial launch of Apple Maps, Google came to the rescue with an old favorite with Google Maps, but at the same time we figure that there are those who might still prefer alternatives, such as Bing, or maybe even Nokia’s HERE Maps. Unfortunately for fans of the latter, Nokia has since pulled their HERE Maps from the iTunes App Store, claiming that the changes made in iOS 7 would harm the user experience of the app.
According to a statement made by Nokia, “We have made the decision to remove our HERE Maps app from the Apple App Store because recent changes to iOS 7 harm the user experience. iPhone users can continue to use the mobile web version of HERE Maps under m.here.com., offering them core location needs, such as search, routing, orientation, transit information and more, all completely free of charge.” If you’re wondering if this has anything to do with the Microsoft-Nokia deal, you might be mistaken as the HERE Maps division will remain with Nokia after the acquisition goes through.
So, anyone else bummed out by HERE Maps being removed from the iTunes App Store?