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Facebook uses Nokia maps in mobes, Instagram and Messenger

Now you can get HERE, there

Facebook, mentioned as a potential buyer of Nokia's HERE business unit, isn't waiting around for a sale and has signed a deal to integrate the Finnish corporation's maps on the mobile version of its site, as well as in Facebook Messenger and Instagram on Android.

HERE is the business unit consolidating Nokia's mapping and location assets under a single brand. Largely rooted in the automotive-grade mapping equipment developed by Navteq, acquired by Nokia for $8.1bn in 2008, the location platform is currently licensed by Amazon, Bing, Yahoo!, Flickr, SAP, Oracle, and now Facebook.

It is widely expected that the Finnish corporation will be flogging HERE soon, although estimates of its value fluctuate between $2bn and $4bn - well short of the amount paid for Navteq.

Neither facebook nor Nokia has released any official statements on the HERE partnership, but confirmation and comment was provided to TechCrunch by both.

"We are testing Nokia HERE maps across Facebook to give us more control and flexibility in delivering a consistent maps experience," a Facebook spokesperson confirmed to TechCrunch by email, adding confirmation that Facebook is testing HERE maps in Android versions of some standalone apps like Instagram and Messenger.

A spokesperson for HERE told the site that they are "excited that our maps can be enjoyed by Facebook users."

Sales for loss-making HERE accounted for just 7.6 per cent of Nokia's total sales last year. The Finnish multinational has been tight-lipped regarding the expected sale of the business unit, and the official word is that the company has "initiated a review of strategic options for its HERE business."

Such a review is understood to be ongoing and "may or may not lead to a transaction."

The Register has contacted Nokia and Facebook for comment and will update this report with more information if it is provided. ®

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