Anticipating the predicted explosion in mobile location based services, Nokia’s new N95 cell phone will have a significant addition in the form of integrated GPS technology and location based services and software. Rather than developing their own technology Nokia have established a licensing agreement giving it access to GPS related patents held by GPS technology giant Trimble. Nokia intend the N95 to be a powerful “one for all” replacement for a media player, digital camera, digital camera, PDA and now a GPS navigation device. It features a 2-way slide concept to simplify switching between different functionalities.

The strategic importance of Nokia’s recent acquisition of gate5, a navigation software developer, is now obvious. The new Nokia N95 will come with gate5 software installed rather than available from a remote server. Installing the software on the phone provides independence from cell phone carriers for services.

Maps from over 100 countries with some 15 million points of interest will be available for N95 users to search for information and services focused on their location. Users will also be able to purchase additional useful plug-ins such as city tourist guides and guided navigation.
GPS technology aside Nokia advertise their new phone as an all-in-one multimedia computer with a pioneering 2-way slide concept, integrated GPS functionality, a 5 megapixel camera and support for high-speed mobile networks, making it easier to watch and record videos, listen to songs, take high-quality photos, browse the internet, or catch up on email while on the move.

Feature Summary:

• landscape mode screen
• 3D graphics
• Carl Zeiss optics on the 5 megapixel camera for still images and video
• TV out feature
• Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) technology support
• High Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA) networks compatibility (10 x 3G speed)
• WLAN, EDGE and WCDMA network support
• 2.6 inch QVGA 16 million color display
• stereo speakers offering a 3D stereo effect
• 3.5 mm audio jack
• compatible microSD card support
• mini USB
• Nokia Web Browser with Mini Map (New features include a floating toolbar, password manager and auto complete, as well as web feeds with support for Atom and auto update)

The software platform for the Nokia N95 is based on Symbian OS. A wide choice of compatible applications can be downloaded to the Nokia N95, including games, navigation, entertainment, productivity and creativity.

Video - Finding a Friend with the Nokia N95

Video - Detailed Demo of the Nokia N95

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Further Reading

GPS Technology Reviews has recently reviewed the multi-capable Mio A701 GPS Phone.

GPS Technology Reviews has recently reviewed PDA based GPS phone - the HP iPAQ hw6515a Pocket PC.

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Outdoor Navigation with GPS

Microsoft Streets and Trips 2007 with GPS Locator [DVD]