Cloud Computing: Glide Apps Coming To Windows, Android, iOS

Being ahead of the curve can be as much of a problem as being behind it. New York-based TransMedia introduced its Glide Effortless service in late 2005. The cloud-based app, storage and collaboration service was one of the early efforts to recreate the desktop experience in a suite of Web applications.

Since then, Apple, Google and Microsoft have all introduced their own cloud storage, sharing and productivity services, leaving TransMedia to reposition its offerings in an effort to survive amid the giants. Glide Effortless became Glide OS and its focus has shifted from providing branded and white-label Web applications for cable operators, to social networking, to content sharing, and online storage…

TransMedia’s latest pivot may finally put it in the position it has been trying to reach — between users and their files. That’s a place every Internet service business wants to be, but few offer enough value to attract and retain customers over time. Apple, Google and Microsoft are doing it through online storage, augmented by other services like email and their powerful brands. Online consumers dislike paying for anything, but they will pay to keep their files safe.

TransMedia offers online storage too, but it’s approaching the market using technology that keeps it out of the storage business as much as possible. Storage may be something people will pay for, but it also represents a significant infrastructure cost….

Read more from the source @ http://www.informationweek.com/cloud-computing/software/glide-apps-coming-to-windows-android-ios/240144354