Introducing Amazon Cloud Drive, an online file storage service linked directly to Amazon accounts. Cloud Drive allows users to access “anything digital, anywhere”.

Online file storage is quickly becoming the new staple for those with on-the-go lifestyles. It’s a great alternative to external file storage because it’s simple, quick, and accessible anywhere. The best feature of online file storage is that you don’t have to carry around any extra flash drives and devices in order to access the content.

Introducing Amazon Cloud Drive

All data and information is stored in the “cloud” or server side (as opposed to being stored on a remotely operated machine). Which means that any files attached to an Amazon Cloud Drive account are available for access via any computer or mobile device with an internet connection.

Amazon’s Cloud Drive servers are professionally managed by a security team and various security enhancements therefore no risk is involved when storing files on an account. All information and data is completely inaccessible to unauthorized users.

Introducing Amazon Cloud Drive Storage Options

Amazon offers up to 5GB of storage space free with the option to upgrade Cloud accounts starting at $20 a year for 20GB and on. Amazon even offers 20GB free (for a year) with the purchase of a full music album from the Amazon MP3 store. The maximum storage available for any Amazon Cloud Drive account is 1000GB ($1000 yearly).

Any MP3 music files or albums purchased in the Amazon MP3 store will be automatically stored on the corresponding Cloud Drive account’s storage without using up standard storage space. Which also means that Amazon users have complete access to their music library (purchased on Amazon) from anywhere just like their files.

Unfortunately there is no direct mobile phone support as of yet (iPhone, Android etc) but Amazon has confirmed future support in the works. So for the time being, all files are only accessible via a computer, net-book, or mobile device with full browser and internet support (yes some mobile devices have it).

For more information on Amazon Cloud Drive visit the official site here.

For those interested in similar online storage options check out Google Docs, Box.net, Windows Live SkyDrive, and DropBox.

Introducing Amazon Cloud Drive

Are you planning to use Amazon Cloud Drive or a related service? Do you prefer an alternative service over Amazon Cloud, if yes then why? Please join the discussion and let us know your thoughts and opinions in the TechLabs dedicated forum thread.