Apple has introduced iCloud, a set of free new cloud services that work seamlessly with apps on user iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Mac or PC.
The new service automatically and wirelessly stores user content in iCloud and delivers the content to all user devices. Additionally, when anything changes on one of the users devices, all of user devices are wirelessly updated, said the company.
The free iCloud services include: the former MobileMe services which delivers contacts, calendar and mail in re-architected and rewritten to work seamlessly with iCloud; the App Store and iBookstore allows users to download purchased iOS apps and books to all users devices, not just the device they were purchased on.
In addition, the App Store and iBookstore allows users to see purchase history, and by tapping the iCloud icon, can download any apps and books to any iOS device (up to 10 devices) at no additional cost, the company said.
The iCloud service also provides backup to iOS devices through iCloud daily over Wi-Fi when user charges iPhone, iPad or iPod touch. Backed up content includes purchased music, apps and books, Camera Roll (photos and videos), device settings and app data.
Further, the service stores all documents created using iCloud Storage APIs, and automatically pushes them to all user devices. When a user changes a document on any device, iCloud automatically pushes the changes to all users’ devices.
The company said that the Photo Stream service automatically uploads the photos user takes or import on any of devices and wirelessly pushes them to all user devices and computers.
Apple CEO Steve Jobs said that iCloud keeps users important information and content up to date across all user devices.
"All of this happens automatically and wirelessly, and because it’s integrated into our apps you don’t even need to think about it — it all just works," Jobs said.
The company said that the iCloud beta and Cloud Storage APIs are available immediately to iOS and Mac Developer Program members at developer.apple.com while iCloud will be available this fall concurrent with iOS 5.
