Android in the cloud

Make sure you have all your files and multimedia content at your fingertips with our guide to the best cloud-based services.

We've all heard about cloud computing, but what does that mean for those with a modern Android smartphone? Well, with abundant memory and dual-core processors in our handsets, not to mention increasing network bandwidth and coverage, having software and data online means we can access our content whenever and wherever we like and  with this capability comes a multitude of other benefits as well.

We no longer need to carry separate GPS devices, MP3s or cameras. And, we can even leave our personal computer at home. As our handsets have become the hub to our digital lifestyle, online storage and backups mean we can have access to only what we need at the time, without the fear of inadvertently losing or damaging what we have. If we lose our phone all we need do is replace the hardware, for all our all-important data resides in the cloud.

Worrying about disk space or upgrading software applications is a thing of the past, we need only maintain the tiny apps themselves. Even then, these are often just the front-end for software residing on sewers that are maintained and updated by the service providers.

Web-based email, such as Gmail, WO such as Skype, video websites such as YouTube and Vimeo and social networking sites such as Twitter and Facebook are just a few cloud-based services that many of us take for granted and yet have been enjoying for a while.

Remote computing resources are not without some potential pitfalls, however, and some thought must be given to the concerns over protection and personal privacy. Most cloud computing resources are In fact a convergence of services delivered via shared data centres. Although security is more complex, there% no evidence to suggest that it is any less effective against malicious attacks than traditional means. Privacy, however, is another matter, in that only legislation and law enforcement can protect us from companies hosting these services from monitoring and using our data. Even so, in many respects, the arguments are similar to the contracts we have with conventional service providers.

Of course, the benefits of embracing the cloud mean a wide range of services can be delivered into the palm of your hand, more or less anywhere in the developed worlds. Wireless data streaming and file syncing on your Android phone means that is the ideal assistant to manage a busy lifestyle, deftly switching between business and leisure activities.

Whether you want to relax listening to music, share personal recommendations with your colleagues and friends, simply need to know how to sync your photos, or business documents on your PC with your Android phone, follow this guide to discover more.

The cloud in action  Brilliant apps that already make the most of cloud syncing

•   Edit online >> Photoshop Express

Adobe has ambraced that cloud with a suite of apps for the mobile user. As well as offering cloud storage of 2GB for free. Photoshop Express allows some usefull, if somewhatbasic, image editing.

•         Get organised >> Remember The Milk

The RTM apps syncs with the online service of the same name-it’s a fully featured to-do list. Tasks and notes are backed up and reminders can be sent via email, SMS, or  IM. The app can even use location data to remind you of tasks.

•         Backup for all >> Mozy Backup

Mozy is an encrypted cloud-based storage and back-up service offering both personal and business accounts. Although 2GBs worth of storage is offered for free, to get the most for the service a paid for account is required.