Editor’s view – the iCloud

“As details of Apple’s new iCloud service become clearer, the one thing that I really hope for is the ability to opt out. The iCloud automatically syncs all your iTunes purchases across all your devices. Don’t get me wrong, I’m a big fan of Apple products, but I use my iPod, iPhone and iPad for different things, I don’t want them all holding the same material. I use my computer as my central library and I want to, and can control it myself. Apple also provides a paid-for service allowing you to push your own media up into its data centre. I’m uncomfortable with the thought that I’d be putting family photos and personal items somewhere outside of my control. The iCloud appears to be a good service if you are happy to give up control, for others it might seem like an attempt by Apple to get you to place your personal material inside its seemingly closed environment. For now, I think I’ll pass on the iCloud.”