GBC-Group, Inc.

 Cloud computing is emerging as the next technology frontier, one where people will access software and data stored on the Internet from anywhere using devices such as the phone, tablet and computer. Many believe that from this mix of devices,  people will rely mostly on their cell phones to access their applications and manage their data. Facebook, Google Docs and iTunes are all examples of cloud-computing applications which are often being accessed via cellphones.

To support its move to cloud computing, Microsoft says it will offer 25GB of free cloud storage within the Windows Live platform for accessing information shared between the Web and other devices.  Microsoft's cloud computing service, Windows Live platform, will give users of phones, PCs and consoles access to e-mail, calendars, pictures, services and the Bing search engine.

Google has described its strategy as one of opening up its technology to all kinds of developers will eventually give it the upper hand in the smartphone software market, saying users should be able to make applications themselves said a spokesperson for Google, a Microsoft competitor.  “The goal is to enable people to become creators, not just consumers, in this mobile world,” said Harold Abelson, who  lead the Google App Inventor for Android  project  while on sabatical from MIT.

Google's leading rival, Apple, takes a more tightly managed approach to application development for the iPhone, controlling the software and vetting the programs available.

Microsoft takes yet another approach, concentrating on the business logic and server-side applications that will connect to mobile and other ubiquitous computing devices.  Microsoft has offered to help partners move into cloud computing. 

 The shift to selling cloud services would be dramatic for many of Microsoft's partners. Many make money selling, installing and managing applications.To help its partners with the transtion from supporting applications to selling services, Microsoft is offering Business Builder for Cloud Services for defining cloud computing opportunities among small, midsize and large companies and in the public sector. Business partners remain concerned as they struggle with how they are going to change their business models from providing infrastructure to being trusted adviser on the use of applications hosted and operated in the "Cloud."