Media moves in the Cloud
In the past week, I've seen a couple of new and interesting (to me) announcements about media services in the cloud
. I find the tension between keeping media and metadata about media in the cloud vs. in the device a fascinating area to peruse. Media is always better when it's with you, of course...but when it's brand-new, or really big (either individually, or in aggregate), or rapidly changing, it's hard to keep a device perfectly in sync. This is where cloud services become useful. I certainly see both sides as having a part to play...the media / information has to get to me at some point to become useful, but having the Net as backup, sync, and caching tool is great.
Many of the next generation
services I love (podcasting, blip.tv and other video services, Democracy Player, etc.) already understand this...but occasionally, a curveball comes from unexpected locations. I saw a couple of these over the last week. Netflix's new streaming movie service, and MP3Tunes new unlimited free music storage locker offer.
OK, ok...neither of those are exactly old-school dinosaur sheet music and buggy-whip manufacturer style BigCos. But they are businesses trying to work under fairly standard business models, so it's a bit different than some Free Software code-sharing lovefest *grin*.
Netflix announced the streaming plan a few weeks back, but with a staged roll-out. So I've been checking once a week or so to see if I'm in the club. And last weekend, I was! It is Pretty Dang Cool. I already love the Netflix model...not only the keep the disc as long as you want
subscription model, but also their customer service and the general feel...changing plans (even to a cheaper one) is 3 clicks in the website. So is cancelling or suspending your account; no requirement to call in and work through a phone support person's offers of shiny baubles, etc. I get the respect vibe from Netflix, and I appreciate it.
It continues with the streaming movie option. First off, they just added it...you get it for free with your account. Clever...it makes dipping your toe in almost a no-brainer. 1 hour / month for every dollar your subscription costs; so 18 hours/month for standard 3 at-a-time sub. The install is simple (though Windows/IE only for now...*sigh*), and the quality is good in my opinion even at the basic level. I'm impressed. This is a potential game-changer; Netflix is easing us into the on demand
model through their service as deftly as they can. Sure, I can get on demand
at home from the cable company, too...but Netflix works with my laptop at the wifi-enabled coffee shop. And soon, I'm sure, on compact devices. Fascinating!
For the MP3Tunes change, I have to estimate the impact; I actually already have the MP3Tunes premium locker, so the new offer doesn't apply to me. (premium lockers still have some advantages, and I got a $20/year coupon...how could I not try it?) I've already drunk the kool-aid here; storing my music in the cloud, as well as on my player, gives me even more super powers! Flash-based browser player, so I don't need my player in extremis. MP3Tunes has players for devices like the Tivo already, and an open API to let developers do anything they can imagine. What a concept, eh? YOUR music. Anywhere, anytime. I like it.
As devices become cooler, more powerful, and more connected (OLPC integration, anyone?), services like these will continue to break ground AND the rules. Keep 'em coming!
posted by Ken Kennedy at Feb 24th 2007 10:30 a.m.
