Google Docs users now have 5 GB of space to play with.
(Credit: Screenshot by Lance Whitney/CNET)
Google Docs users now have 5 GB of space to house their documents, up from just 1 GB previously.
A check of my own Google Docs storage confirmed the 5 GB now available, though the Verge says the rollout seems to be staggered, so some users may not yet see the increase.
The timing of this move could be a sign that Google is ready to kick off its Google Drive, especially following a Reuters report claiming the company will announce the new online storage service as soon as today.
Taking a page from Microsoft's SkyDrive, Dropbox, and other online storage sites, Google Drive would allow users to store and synchronize their files in the cloud and access them from any connected device, not just PCs but presumably smartphones and tablets.
Google Docs does already offer the ability to create, upload, and store several types of documents. But it lacks the file synchronization that's key to users who want to maintain the same files both online and across their various devices.
People would initially receive 5 GB of storage for free, a source told Reuters, with an option to pay for more space per month, capping off at around 100 GB.
No details have been leaked as to how much Google might charge for the increased storage. But the company would certainly want to stay competive with the prices charged for more space at SkyDrive, Dropbox, and the rest of the pack.
The search giant would also employ "sophisticated image search technology," according to Reuters, to help people search for and browse images, PDF files, and other document types.
Google did not immediately respond to CNET's request for comment.
The increase in Google Docs storage and reports of Google Drive come amidst new features in both SkyDrive and Dropbox, promising a battle among the online storage sites to win the hearts and minds of consumers.
(courtesy:cnet.com)
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