Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG) just launched Google Drive, a new service that allows users to store files on a cloud drive and access their files on virtually any computer or mobile device.
Google Drive offers the first five gigabytes of storage for free and if users want more, they can purchase 25 GB for $2.49 a month. It’s currently available for Windows, Mac, and Android. They will launch an application for iOS within a few weeks. Right now, users can access the service via Google Docs.
Google’s cloud drive was created to be a competitor to Microsoft SkyDrive but others think they have bigger competition to face with the likes of Apple’s iCloud, Amazon Cloud Drive, and Dropbox. ShareFile’s CEO Jesse Lipson thinks that Google entered the game a little too late. Research firm analyst Liz Connor said that many people who already use services like Dropbox are pleased with the service they’re already paying for and they’re unlikely to make the switch to Google’s.
The company’s executive Sundar Pichai thinks that Google’s cloud drive storage will become the center of the user’s online experience. He also claims that it will provide a unique experience that allows users to search and index over 30 different kinds of files including Adobe files. They are also in talks of offering more specialized services for independent software developers in order to help them create more customized apps.
It’s true that Google has arrived a little too late on this one. Their venture might be a successful one if they can find a way to enhance their service because it’s going to take a lot more than the Google name and innovative search features to entice people to use their services. It’s really surprising that they missed the mark on this one but hopefully they will find a way to come out on top.
