NYC & Company has announced a partnership with local start-up firm CityMaps to launch a free, co-branded smartphone app available for download on iTunes.

NYC Map is a comprehensive digital tool that allows users to navigate New York City using easy-to-recognise names and visual POIs (logos) and to customise their experience with filtered content from nearly 90,000 hotels, restaurants, bars, shops and attractions.

NYC is currently the only destination in the United States to have a co-branded mobile app with CityMaps.

The use of brand logos on the map allows users to easily view the businesses in their immediate areas, from banks and tourist landmarks to their favourite clothing stores.

“Our partnership with CityMaps has allowed us to create a product that benefits New Yorkers, international and domestic travellers and local businesses across the five boroughs all at the same time,” said NYC & Company chief executive George Fertitta.

“NYC Map’s heavy use of widely recognised logos, symbols and brands is particularly helpful for our non-native English speakers looking to get around the city.

“By aligning ourselves with this forward-thinking technology, we’re able to better engage locals and visitors, as well as support New York City’s vibrant digital sector.”

NYC & Company the official marketing, tourism and partnership organisation for New York City.

NYC Map’s comprehensive technology acts as a retail platform for local companies—big and small—to increase consumer awareness and amplify their messaging in a streamlined way, ultimately serving as the resource for information about New York City on the go.

UK travellers can download NYC Map before travelling to New York City from iTunes.

Smart-phone users wanting to avoid roaming charges will find free WiFi widely available around the city, including in selected coffee shops, hotels and many city parks.

For further information on finding free WiFi in New York City, see the tourism website.