Amazon Cloud Drive adds file syncing, gets ready to take on Dropbox

Amazon has enabled file syncing on it's Cloud Drive service allowing users to sync and access their files across multiple computers. With the move, Cloud Drive has become a viable alternative to popular cloud storage service, Dropbox.

Amazon had launched Cloud Drive in March 2011 enabling users to upload files of up to 5GB for free. While the service initially required users to manage files via their web browser or through a mobile app, Amazon launched Mac and Windows apps for Cloud Drive in May 2012, allowing users to add files by simple drag and drop or via the right-click contextual menu. It also enabled background file transfers but missed syncing. Users can also purchase more storage space with plans ranging from $10 per year for 20GB to $500 per year for 1000GB.

Amazon had initially targeted the service at users who bought music from the company and users received unlimited storage for music that they purchased from Amazon. Users can also add 250 of their own music files free of charge. It allows users to register up to 8 devices on a single account. With support for syncing, users will be able to upload and access files across different devices.

The Cloud Drive desktop app supports Windows XP, Vista, 7, and 8, and Mac OS 10.6, 10.7, and 10.8.

Users around the world can store files on the Amazon Cloud Drive, but Amazon only offers music downloads in select markets.

Although Cloud Drive has gained this new functionality, it's only restricted to the desktop apps of the service, as noted by Ars Technica. This means that files synced on the desktop won't automatically sync to mobile apps unlike Dropbox that offers sync across different platforms. Other cloud storage platforms include Microsoft's Skydrive, Google Drive, Apple iCloud and Box.