Nokia Maps for Windows Phone 8 has been updated to version 3.0.125.8. There are no major features changes, but the Windows Store description notes that the app has improved stability and performance. This is most noticeable in the app's start up time, which has been cut in half, but it is also apparent when scrolling or zooming the map.
The description for Nokia Maps also mentions that there a Windows Store fix for an issue that, in certain circumstances, prevented Nokia Maps from starting:
Microsoft fixed the Windows Store issue that prevented Nokia Maps from starting - you should no longer see the 'Problem with app' dialogue when updating this version. We're very sorry for any incovenience caused.
Previosuly it was necessary to uninstall the app, and then re-install it, in order solve this issue.
Nokia Maps can be downloaded from the Nokia collection in the Windows Phone Store. It is currently only available for Nokia Lumia devices.
Nokia does make its map app available to other manufacturers, but they must choose to include it in their device and, presumably, pay Nokia a license fee. Currently no manufacturer has chosen to do this, opting instead to use Windows Phone 8's deafult Map app. The default Maps app is still powered by the Nokia Location Platform, but not include all the features of Nokia Maps app.
