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Cloud Computing: Google vs. Apple
In summary:
Google’s concept of cloud computing is largely Web-based, as are most of the company’s initiatives. Chief among them is that any device with a Web browser and an Internet connection can access the vast majority of Google services: GMail and the related contact manager; Google Calendar; and Google Docs, where you can view, edit and collaborate on Office-style documents. Google’s system also allows you to purchase and read ebooks, for instance, or listen to your DRM-free music (once its been uploaded).
Apple’s approach with iCloud is different, because it’s clearly app-centric When it comes to syncing your core personal information, the apps involved can be iOS apps — Contacts, Calendar, Camera, iTunes, iBooks, App Store — Mac apps such as Address Book, iCal, iPhoto and iTunes, or Windows apps like Outlook, the Photos folder and, again iTunes.
Two approaches, one goal
The interesting thing is that both Apple’s app-based approach and Google’s Web-centric mindset point in the same direction: instant access to your data, whenever you want it, wherever you are.
This is Google’s mission statement:
Google’s mission is to organize the world‘s information and make it universally accessible and useful.
This is Apple’s mission statement:
Apple designs Macs, the best personal computers in the world, along with OS X, iLife, iWork, and professional software. Apple leads the digital music revolution with its iPods and iTunes online store. Apple reinvented the mobile phone with its revolutionary iPhone and App Store, and has recently introduced its magical iPad which is defining the future of mobile media and computing devices.
