Windows 8 to use cloud to keep user settings across PCs

Microsoft is enhancing its Windows Live service to allow users of its upcoming flagship operating system Windows 8 keep and sync their settings across multiple personal computers (PCs). The software giant also hinted at a seamless integration between Windows and SkyDrive, its online storage site that allows up to 25 gigabytes of storage space for users. “One of the great things about web-based services is that you can log in from any browser and start right where you left off. The service keeps track of your settings and profile, and you can get started just by typing in your ID. With Windows 8, you now have that same ability for the important parts of your Windows experience, if you choose to. You can sign in to a Windows 8 PC with your Windows Live ID, and then it gets your profile, application settings, and other important information right from the cloud," Windows Live engineering vice president Chris Jones said in a blog post. He said this is built on top of the Windows Live infrastructure and can support over 500 million active users a month. Jones noted over 150,000 people have already logged in to Windows 8 with their Windows Live ID. “As they move across Windows 8 devices, their settings and preferences will go along with them," he said. The Windows Live service also keeps track of all Windows PCs and Windows Phones, allowing a user to easily connect back to any PC when one is away, or find one’s phone when it is lost, he said. Jones said that in preparation for Windows 8, his unit has taken several “bold" steps:

• Enhancing the Live service for sync across PCs
• Making a SkyDrive available to every Windows 8 and Windows Phone customer
• Building a new suite of Metro style apps for communications and sharing
• Enabling app developers to use Live and SkyDrive through the Live SDK

Jones said every person who uses Windows 8 or Windows Phone will have access to a SkyDrive, where one can put one’s most important files. “These are stored in the cloud, accessible from any browser, and connected to the apps we’ve built for Windows 8 and Windows Phone. And you can share things with anyone, over email or through networks like Facebook, LinkedIn, or Twitter," he said. Also, new Metro-style apps for Mail, Calendar, Photos, Messaging, and People will be cloud-powered by the Windows Live service. “People is a connected address book, bringing together contacts from work, home, and popular networks including Facebook and LinkedIn. Messaging keeps track of all of your IM conversations across Messenger, Facebook, and other connected IM networks. And Photos lets you view your photos, whether on your PC, another PC, SkyDrive, or other popular service," he said. Jones also hinted at updates to Windows Live Essentials; Hotmail and Messenger; and even more on SkyDrive, Live, and applications for Windows 8. — LBG, GMA News