Apple has released iCloud beta for developers, along with the iCloud pricing, and it looks like iCloud will feature the same web apps as MobileMe plus some new ones.
The guys over at Tech Crunch have been testing out the iCloud Beta, and have found some new web apps which include iCloud for Pages, iCloud for Keynote and iCloud for Numbers.
On top of those new applications, there will be the following applications from MobileMe: Mail, Contacts, Calendar, and Find My iPhone. The only ones which have been removed are iDisk and Gallery, and these functions are replaced in iCloud.
New Additions to iCloud
The introduction of iCloud for Pages, Keynote, and Numbers marks a significant enhancement over MobileMe. These applications are part of Apple’s iWork suite, which allows users to create and edit documents, presentations, and spreadsheets directly from their web browser. This means that users can now access their work from any device with an internet connection, making it easier to stay productive on the go.
For example, iCloud for Pages allows users to create and edit text documents with a variety of formatting options, while iCloud for Keynote enables the creation of professional-quality presentations. iCloud for Numbers, on the other hand, provides robust spreadsheet capabilities, including complex formulas and data visualization tools. These new web apps are designed to work seamlessly with their iOS and macOS counterparts, ensuring a consistent experience across all devices.
Integration and Synchronization
One of the key features of iCloud is its ability to keep all your devices in sync. When you make changes to a document in iCloud for Pages on your iPhone, those changes are automatically reflected on your iPad and Mac. This level of integration extends to other iCloud services as well, such as Mail, Contacts, and Calendar. For instance, if you add a new contact on your iPhone, it will instantly appear on your other devices.
Find My iPhone is another valuable feature that has been carried over from MobileMe. This service allows users to locate their lost or stolen devices on a map, remotely lock them, or even erase their data to protect sensitive information. The integration of Find My iPhone into iCloud ensures that users have a comprehensive suite of tools to manage their Apple devices.
While iDisk and Gallery have been removed, their functionalities are not lost. iCloud Drive replaces iDisk, offering a more modern and integrated solution for file storage and sharing. Users can store any type of file in iCloud Drive and access it from any device. Similarly, the Photos app in iCloud replaces Gallery, providing a centralized location for storing and sharing photos and videos. The Photos app also includes powerful editing tools and the ability to create albums and slideshows.
In terms of pricing, Apple has introduced a tiered structure for iCloud storage. The basic plan offers 5GB of free storage, which is sufficient for most users’ needs. For those who require more space, additional storage can be purchased at competitive rates. This flexible pricing model ensures that iCloud can accommodate a wide range of users, from casual consumers to professionals with extensive storage needs.
Overall, the release of iCloud beta for developers marks a significant step forward for Apple’s cloud services. With the addition of new web apps and the integration of existing MobileMe features, iCloud offers a comprehensive and seamless experience for managing documents, emails, contacts, calendars, and more. The ability to access and sync data across multiple devices ensures that users can stay productive and connected, no matter where they are.
Source Tech Crunch
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