Web services not only store data online but also synchronize with laptops, desktops, and mobile phones. Alongside the growing popularity of broadband connections, hard drives can completely replace remote Internet servers.
Observer Thomas Vander Wal refers to services capable of storing files simultaneously on the network and on devices as “personal information clouds.” For instance, if a user edits a photo on their mobile phone, the service will automatically upload a copy to the website. Conversely, when people edit files online, the system will send a copy to the computer’s hard drive.
Although hard drives currently cannot assume the role of web servers, signs of these “data clouds” have begun to emerge. Sharpcast has just introduced a digital photo synchronization service, while Streamload is implementing a system compatible with music and video files.
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The Internet, computers, and mobile phones will become interconnected as one. Image: Sharpcast |
“With Streamload’s MediaMax service, I can invite others to synchronize with my folder. Whenever I upload a movie, my mother receives a notification. If she is also running a similar application, the program will automatically download the file to her computer</em," explains Michael Corrales, Market Director of Streamload.
Streamload allows users to store 25 GB and upload 1 GB of content for free. For an additional $4.95 per month, they can have a 100 GB virtual storage drive and download 10 GB monthly. Similar services include BeInSync software from an Israeli company and Microsoft’s FolderShare.
Sharpcast’s service is even simpler. After installing the company’s software on both computers and mobile phones, users can edit files on their devices, and those changes will be instantly updated on Sharpcast’s website. “If you take pictures with your phone, those photos will be sent to the web server and your office computer without you having to press any keys. The entire process occurs automatically“, says Gibu Thomas, CEO of Sharpcast.
However, many people still lack broadband connections or DSL service at home. Wi-Fi hotspots are not widespread enough to keep laptops online all day. This is hindering the synchronization process of these “information clouds.” Additionally, hackers and cybercriminals have their own tactics to exploit vulnerabilities in sharing networks, which makes people hesitant to sign up for these services.
