Reference Auto

Apple is now set to roll out iCloud, its cloud-based platform that will offer a choice of instantly-pushed services across all its products.

It will come for free and access to iCloud will pave the way for users to buy App Store and iBookstore items prior to downloading them at no extra cost to all compatible Apple devices.

“Today it is a real hassle and very frustrating to keep all your information and content up-to-date across all your devices,” said CEO Steve Jobs, while unveiling the iCloud.

He added, “iCloud keeps important information and content up to date across all devices. All of this takes place automatically and wirelessly. Since it’s integrated into our apps, you don’t need to think about it, it just kind of works.”

Former MobileMe services such as Contacts, Calendar and Mail (5GB ceiling) have been re-architected and rewritten so that they seamlessly integrate with iCloud. This will let users share calendars with friends and family, while Mail is ad-free and has been hosted by me.com.

Apple has given a shot in the arm to data security also. iCloud uses Wi-Fi to automatically and securely back up music, apps, books, photos, images and device settings purchased from any Apple device while they are connected for charging.

Now, iCloud is available in beta version while the final one will be available in a few months from now alongside iOS 5. It will be compatible with iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch and Mac systems running on Mac OS X Lion.

As use of smartphones and tablets with limited storage are burgeoning, demand for cloud-based services are on the rise. In fact, technology firms such as Amazon and Zynga are already scurrying to stake their claim on the cloud market.

Apple’s iCloud is a game changer. For instance, Apple’s new iTunes Match service will scan hard drives of users and automatically make songs available on the iCloud. Compare this to Google and Amazon cloud-based storage service where users will have to upload every song all by themselves.

Apple, while launching the iCloud, has already incorporated a technology that is futuristic and it is to be seen how other companies follow the bellwether (Apple) in rolling out similar services.

But Apple has managed to make its iCloud compatible with all its devices and this will not only boost iCloud usage but also give a fillip to sales of Apple’s products.