Watch Out Dropbox!

Real iCloud storage is coming back, and it's better than ever.

The iCloud folder has found its way back into the Finder window. In Yosemite and iOS 8 all of your Apple devices will share a folder that constantly updates, keeping all your files up to date, even in real time. This will work not only with the iWork applications (Keynote, Numbers, Pages) but with all file types, although some may require third party apps to edit on the iOS devices. It's unclear yet how much storage you will get but it will most likely be equal to what you get now. (5gb free, with the option to purchase more.) 

BREAKING NEWS! BREAKING NEWS!

I was going to make this article all about iCloud but, alas, news calls. Yesterday (July 15th) Apple and IBM announced a partnership to work together with the goal of making the iPhone and iPad the best devices in the world for businesses. IBM will be releasing over 100 apps developed from the ground up for enterprise as well as new device management software to allow for easier and more efficient mass deployment of iOS devices. There will even be new AppleCare plans specifically designed for businesses with multiple devices in use.

One thing that is heavily emphasized is the security of everyone's data. Not only is the current architecture of iOS very secure but IBM is one of, if not the, leader in security technologies in the world today. All these new apps will work with your current VPN or secure network and will stay securely separated from other apps on your device.

 

More importantly though to many of you, APPS CAN NOW BE PURCHASED IN VOLUME BUNDLES AND DISTRIBUTED. 

Yes, no more entering in your account info on every device in your office. Application licenses can now be handed out and assigned to your employees iPhones and iPads. They do not even have to bring their devices to you, as all of this will be done wirelessly through the App Store. You will even be able to take back apps from people who no longer need them or leave the company. Yes, this will even work with the Mac App Store on Yosemite.

Sadly we will all have to wait for the iOS 8 and Yosemite launch in the fall for these features, but something in me says they'll be well worth the wait.