Nokia shows web ambitions

Singapore - Nokia has launched a series of internet services under the brand name Ovi, allowing its users to download music, games, and maps directly to mobile phone.

Ovi is the central point for the brand's internet services that now includes the Nokia Music Store, N-Gage games, and Nokia Maps - the first version of Ovi.com will go live within the fourth quarter of 2007.

Nokia's new music store, which will be a direct competitor to Apple's iTunes offering, features millions of tracks from major artists, independent labels, as well as a broad range of local artists from around the world and is accessible via desktop computer or from compatible Nokia devices. In November 2007, companies such as Electronic Arts and Gameloft will make available for download, some of its bigger gaming brands through N-Gage, directly to compatible Nokia devices. Similarly, in the coming months Nokia will make available, under the Ovi umbrella, Nokia Maps which is a navigation service offering maps and city guides.

"The industry is converging towards internet driven experiences and Ovi represents Nokia's vision in combining the Internet and mobility. Looking into the future, we will deliver great devices, combined with compelling experiences and services, to make it easy for people to unlock the potential of the internet. We started this journey with our navigation services earlier this year and we are now combining all our services into a single branded offering - Ovi by Nokia. Over the coming 12 months, you will see us integrate new user interface elements, service suites and web communities to Ovi," Urpo Karjalainen, SVP of Customer Market Operations, Asia Pacific for Nokia said.