Uber has reportedly tabled a $3 billion bid for Nokia's Here Maps, a service that is believed to have attracted a number of other interested parties.

The Finnish firm is expected to announce the sale of its prized asset by the end of the month, Digital Spy said citing the New York Times.

Uber already uses Google Maps and Apple data to help ferry customers to their destination, but the acquisition of Here could end their reliance on third-parties.

Here supplies around 80% of the world's sat-navs with directional information, making it a natural fit for Uber's global fleet.

Reports suggest the taxi company faces steep competition for the Nokia software, with Facebook and a BMW-led consortium among the other potential buyers.

Nokia Here Maps is available for iOS, Android and Windows Phone in app form, as well as on the web.