Alternatives to the Cloud
Is the "cloud" (online storage and services provided by a number of companies) really the future of computing? You have to admit that being able to free up your hard drive, access your files from anywhere, and stream to your heart's content sounds great. Google wrapped up their I/O 2011 conference several days ago, and we were presented with ChromeOS laptops, Android updates, and Music Beta from Google.
Music Beta is Google's version of cloud music, where you can store your music on their servers (for good or bad, depending on your view of privacy) and stream to other computers or mobile devices. Google is giving away 20 gb free for storage as well. So what's the catch? Those 20 free gb are only free temporarily, and, Music Beta itself is invite only.
So how can you enjoy the benefits of the cloud and Music Beta? There are alternatives. One of my new favorites is Audiogalaxy. After being around for awhile, Audiogalaxy has retooled itself as a "pusher". What exactly is that? Well instead of putting your files in the hands of a corporation, Audiogalaxy will "upload" what folders of songs you point the downloadable helper to (more akin to Last.fm scrobbling) and will contain all your music in your profile (it pushes files to the internet for access). Then open ANY browser (laptop, desktop, brother's Mac, friend's PC, etc) and hit play. It's that easy. Download the iOS or Android app, and all your music is there for you, no more syncing required. As a bonus, Audiogalaxy also renames mislabeled and unknown tracks (not on your computer, though) and takes iTunes playlist data as well.
The obvious downside is that this really isn't the cloud by definition as you need to keep your files on a computer, and you need to download a helper tool. But I believe the pros out weigh the cons in this one, as you receive the benefits of cloud streaming without having to apply for Music Beta or pay for extra storage from Amazon.