Nokia weighing sale of maps business to focus on networks: sources

London

NOKIA Oyj is exploring the sale of its maps business as the Finnish equipment maker focuses on boosting growth at its wireless-network unit and improving its debt rating, according to people familiar with the matter.

Nokia has reached out to potential buyers including Uber Technologies Inc, the mobile car-booking application, and private-equity firms, the people said. A group of German carmakers has also shown interest, the people added, and bids for the unit are expected as soon as this month.