Free Mobile Maps

The majority of mobile map applications do not cost anything to download and with that, it is especially difficult for some premium developers to survive. This is of course fantastic for the average user, who have a huge range of quality, free mobile maps to download for so many different platforms. What’s more, for those users who cannot be bothered with the aggravation of downloading applications, the majority of modern phone platforms arrive with map services pre-installed.

Google Maps

Google Maps is the most popular piece of map viewing software and the company are continuing to make improvements to the service. While it already offers users the opportunity to find directions, read local business reviews and receive real time traffic updates, Google are also attempting to integrate other GPS navigational features in the future.

Bing

Although not as popular as Google Maps, Bing is emerging as another big player in the industry. Their map functionality is integrated with their general search program, which means that its users can also locate business reviews as well as basic map features.

Map Quest

Map Quest is one of the oldest online map companies although it has recently fallen behind the likes of Google and Bing. It will mainly apply to users with older phones, as its technology is primarily designed for those who are accessing it through a simple Java enabled handset.

NaviComputer

NaviComputer is an example of a specialist mobile map application. The software is designed for those users who spend lots of time in the outdoors, with vital statistics such as distance travelled and elevation being tracked. Unfortunately, it is only available on the Windows Mobile platform.

Blackberry Mobile Map

The majority of phone manufacturers do not release their device with an in-house application. However, Blackberry went down this route and all of their devices will contain their own mobile map software. It is fairly basic in comparison with competitors, but will still suit many users.

Difference between Free and Paid Mobile Maps

The differences between free and paid mobile map software are not actually that obvious. In general, the map viewing experience is identical, with applications such as Google Maps providing users with an unbelievably sophisticated map and directions system. However, one area where the paid applications do triumph in is GPS navigation. Many of the paid services give users the opportunity to use their phone exactly how they would use a satellite navigational device. This will appeal to a small section of the market but it is also worth saying that companies such as Google are working to add such functionality to their application. Google Maps already includes step-by-step voice commands and you can only imagine such a feature advancing in the future.

Free Mobile Maps Summary

It can definitely be concluded that the majority of users will be satisfied with the free mobile maps that are on offer. All of them offer a comprehensive feature set and with their technology continually advancing, it will not be long before they offer similar functionality to what the paid applications retail with.