There are more devices connected to the Internet than there are people on the face of the Earth — a number which exceeds 7 billion. Some of this huge growth in mobile usage is due to cloud computing, which is only going to get bigger and better as more time passes. Is your head – or at least, your mobile devices – in the clouds?
What is Cloud Computing?
So what is this phenomenon that’s made mobile devices so popular? Essentially, cloud computing is a form of storage. Rather than storing data on the mobile device itself, information and processes are stored on a cloud network that exists separately from your personal mobile device.Because the cloud is stored elsewhere, it’s possible for even non-smartphone users to access cloud-based applications and data. This means that even more people can take advantage of the storage capabilities and features provided on these cloud networks. The GPS information you access when you’re trying to map out a route is an example of a cloud network. You can reach Google maps and similar sites on a computer, on a smartphone and on many other Internet-ready devices, including tablets.
What’s the Point of Cloud Computing?
Instead of saving a bunch of files to keep track of your progress on Angry Birds, the cloud stores your data for you. Your Internet-ready devices work faster because they aren’t storing all that information. Cloud computing allows users on a particular network to access a shared bandwidth. The bandwidth determines how quickly data travels from the Internet to your device. Because you can access the cloud through your mobile device, you’ll automatically have access to very high bandwidth capabilities in order to transfer data quickly and efficiently.
Blowing Up the Clouds with Mobile Growth
The ability of smartphone and tablet devices to access cloud networks has helped to transform business, and it will only continue to bring the world together in the future. Because these devices can access networks to store and share files, send emails and receive messages, professionals can now stay connected to their offices 24 hours a day. Instead of waiting for slow fax machines or taking the time to make a phone call, business owners can exchange data with their employees in an instant. You no longer have to go to the office to do your work – you just have to use your device to connect to the cloud the office is using. Mobile cloud computing makes life easier, and that’s why it’s become so hugely popular.
Social networks are also a form of cloud network. Your mobile device or computer won’t save all the messages you’ve tweeted to your friends, but Twitter does save them. This type of easy computing makes it simple to connect people all over the world. Social media has helped to drive cloud computing and expand cloud networks, and the sky’s the limit. Cloud computing will only become more sophisticated and bigger in the future.
Mobiles these days have become so advanced that it is easy to get lost in the clouds. All major mobile phone vendors like Motorola, Nokia, Sony, etc., are rushing to grab a share of the market pie. Mobile phone operating systems such as the new Android Jelly Bean and the new Windows phone 8 are really fast, and coupled with sound mobile hardware and fast and seamless 4G networks, you’ll have access to tons of other cloud networks (like Twitter) that won’t over-load your phone with a bunch of data.
Shaun Chatman is a freelance writer by night and a gym trainer in the day. Happily married and a father of two gregarious kids, Shaun lives in Dunedin, FL, and spends his free time playing with his kids or watching or playing sports. You can connect with him here.
