Google launches storage service for personal files

Google is hoping to build the world’s largest digital filing cabinet in the latest attempt to deepen people’s dependence on its services. The Internet search leader began its pursuit of the audacious goal Tuesday with the much-anticipated debut of Google Drive, a product that stores personal documents, photos, videos and a wide range of other digital content on Google’s computers. By keeping files in massive data centers, users will be able to call up the information on their smartphones, tablet computers, laptops and just about any other Internet-connected device. Content can also be shared among friends, family and co-workers more easily by sending links to the information instead of emailing large attachments. Google Drive is offering the first five gigabytes of storage for free. Monthly prices for additional storage will range from $2.49 for 25 gigabytes to $49.99 for one terabyte, equivalent to five laptops with 200-gigabyte drives. The service is initially available through a Web-based interface or as a software installation on Windows-based computers, Mac computers, laptops running on Google’s Chrome operating system, and smartphones powered by Google’s Android software. A version compatible with Apple Inc.’s hot-selling iPhone and iPad is due out in the next few weeks. Read the full story here.