Music in the "cloud"

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On Monday, we mentioned that Apple plans to lauch its iCloud service this fall.  Best Buy has recently expanded its UK based "cloud" based music service to the US which will compete with Apple's service.  Cloud-based music services such as Best Buy's Music Cloud, Amazon's Cloud Player and Apple's iCloud allow users to buy and store digital music content in the "cloud" eliminating the need for users to download music to their music players; users can then stream content on the web or via an app on their mobile phone or tablet.

What is the "cloud?"

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Have you been hearing the term "cloud" being tossed around over the past few years and wondered what exactly is this "cloud?!"  Here's a description from Wikipedia:

Cloud computing refers to the use and access of multiple server-based computational resources via a digital network (WAN, Internet connection using the World Wide Web, etc.). Cloud users may access the server resources using a computer, netbook, pad computer, smart phone, or other device. In cloud computing, applications are provided and managed by the cloud server and data is also stored remotely in the cloud configuration. Users do not download and install applications on their own device or computer; all processing and storage is maintained by the cloud server. The on-line services may be offered from a cloud provider or by a private organization.

See more about the "cloud" from:

• Microsoft
• Siemens
• Cisco
• Google
• HP
• Dell
• IBM
• Coming this fall - Apple's iCloud for iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch