The latest version of Apple’s mobile operating system has been heavily criticised for the apparently poor quality of its maps. Apple iOS 6 uses Apple’s own map data, unlike previous versions that were based on Google maps.

Complaints about the Apple map application include out-of-date business data, misplaced towns and incorrectly-placed landmarks.

Nokia has announced its first two Windows Phone 8 devices at a special event in New York today.

The Nokia Lumia 920 is the company’s flagship Windows Phone 8 smartphone, incorporating the company’s PureView imaging technology with low-light capability and image stabilisation to offer clearer photographs. It’s also equipped with Nokia City Lens - a new location-based augmented reality service - along with wireless charging and a 2000mAh battery.

We recently heard about a new industry group aimed at driving the adoption of indoor positioning services. It’s called the In-Location Alliance and contains 22 tech companies including Nokia, Qualcomm, Samsung and Sony.

Now ABI Research has published a report noting that the indoor location and application market is entering a new phase of growth.

Google has added biking directions to the Android version of its maps application in the UK, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden and Switzerland.

It enables bicycle riders to benefit from voice-guided navigation on roads and cycle lanes, with the option of avoiding steep hills where possible.

A number of technology companies have launched an industry alliance that’s aimed at driving the innovation and adoption of indoor positioning services.

The new partnership is called the In-Location Alliance and it’s being supported by 22 companies.