Facebook Signs Deal with Nokia for Here Maps

Nokia and social media giant Facebook has reportedly signed a deal to enable map services for mobile apps. Facebook's Messenger and Instagram apps would benefit greatly on the newly-signed deal, which will allow users to use "Here" for mobile maps while logged in on their social media accounts.

"We are testing Nokia HERE maps across Facebook to give us more control and flexibility in delivering a consistent maps experience," a Facebook official told TechCrunch via email. He also confirmed that the company is testing the maps for the Android version of some standalone apps.

A Here spokesman has also confirmed the deal, and said they are excited that Facebook users will get to enjoy the mobile map service. The two companies are yet to officially confirm the acquisition.

According to sources, the Finnish company will power Here's mapping service for Facebook apps. The latter is currently using Nokia's Here maps for the social network's mobile websites, which will soon be available on both Messenger and IG.

Nokia was reported to have confirmed that it was considering selling the mapping service for about $2 billion in early April. Other big tech companies such as Samsung, Apple, Yahoo, and Alibaba are among those who are eyeing to acquire the Finnish company's mapping division.

On April 14, Nokia announced that it may sell Here Maps, along with other businesses it owns. The company, which is known for its mobile phones, have sold its smartphone division to Microsoft for $7.3 billion in 2014.

It looks like Nokia is gearing towards a business-to-business enterprise, and will eventually let go of divisions that are concerned with business-to-consumers (B2B), as part of a strategic move. The Finnish ex-mobile phone maker has also announced that it has confirmed the acquisition of Alcatel-Lucent for $16.6 billion.

"Nokia today announces that it has initiated a review of strategic options, including a potential divestment, for its HERE business... The strategic review of HERE is on-going and it may or may not result in any transaction," a spokesperson shared earlier.

Facebook, on the other hand, is keeping its promise of a better social media platform for users. Apart from incorporating Here Maps in its mobile apps later on, the company also took out fake and inactive accounts earlier this year.