Nokia and Lonely Planet offer travel guides

Nokia, the handset maker, has signed a deal with Lonely Planet to offer downloable city guides through its Nokia Maps software. The service, which includes over 100 destinations, will launch today (August 19).

The guides will offer users information about local restaurants, shops and accommodation, as well as information on popular tourist attractions and nightlife.

Maximilian Schierstadt, Nokia context based services head of media partnerships, says the deal will allow the handset brand to “continue to innovate” through its Nokia Maps software.

Nokia marketing director Will Harris says the software has been a key focus for the brand over the last few months.

Meanwhile, Nokia has also launched the Nokia 8800 Carbon Arte – a phone made from carbon fibre, titanium, polished glass and stainless steal – in a bid to attract high-end consumers to the brand.