Apple is launching iOS 8 next week, and one of the new features in iOS 8 and also OS X Mavericks will be Apple’s iCloud Drive, which will allow you to store a number of things like photos and more, over the existing iCloud service.
Now it would appear that Apple has dropped the price of iCloud Storage, ahead of the launch of iOS 8. You still get 5GB of free storage, but now an extra 20GB will cost you just $0.99 per month.
If you need more than that, 200GB will set you back $3.99 a month, 500GB $9.99 a month, and 1TB just $19.99 a month. These new prices are not live yet, but we can expect them to be available when iCloud Drive launches shortly.
Enhanced Storage Options
iCloud Drive will sync everything that you have stored on iCloud on all of your devices, and the service will work with the iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch as well as Apple’s Mac range of computers. This seamless integration ensures that users can access their files from any Apple device, making it incredibly convenient for those who are deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem.
As well as being able to store photos, you will also be able to store things like documents, spreadsheets, presentations, and more. One of the standout features is the ability to edit these documents on multiple devices. For instance, you could start working on a document on your Mac, make some changes on your iPad while on the go, and then finalize it on your iPhone. This level of flexibility is particularly useful for professionals and students who need to work across different devices.
Security and Privacy
Apple has always emphasized the importance of security and privacy, and iCloud Drive is no exception. All files stored in iCloud Drive are encrypted both in transit and at rest, ensuring that your data is protected from unauthorized access. Additionally, Apple uses two-factor authentication to add an extra layer of security, making it harder for anyone to gain access to your account without your permission.
Moreover, iCloud Drive offers a feature called “Family Sharing,” which allows you to share your storage plan with up to six family members. Each member gets their own private space within the shared storage, so you don’t have to worry about your files getting mixed up with theirs. This is a cost-effective way for families to manage their digital lives without having to pay for multiple storage plans.
Another noteworthy feature is the ability to recover deleted files. If you accidentally delete a file, you can easily restore it from iCloud Drive within 30 days. This can be a lifesaver if you mistakenly delete an important document or photo.
Comparing with Competitors
When compared to other cloud storage services like Google Drive, Dropbox, and Microsoft OneDrive, iCloud Drive offers competitive pricing and seamless integration with Apple devices. While Google Drive offers 15GB of free storage, its paid plans are more expensive than iCloud Drive’s. Dropbox, on the other hand, offers only 2GB of free storage, making iCloud Drive a more attractive option for those who need more space without breaking the bank.
Microsoft OneDrive offers 5GB of free storage, similar to iCloud Drive, but its integration with Apple devices is not as smooth. For users who rely heavily on Apple’s ecosystem, iCloud Drive is the clear winner in terms of convenience and ease of use.
In conclusion, Apple’s iCloud Drive is set to revolutionize the way we store and access our files. With its competitive pricing, robust security features, and seamless integration with Apple devices, it is poised to become the go-to cloud storage solution for millions of users worldwide. Whether you’re a professional, a student, or just someone who needs a reliable way to store your digital life, iCloud Drive has something to offer.
Source Cult of Mac
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