SkyDrive updated with desktop clients, masses of free storage

Microsoft has stolen second base today, launching version 2.0 of SkyDrive that includes brand new local desktop clients for Windows and Mac OS X. The upgraded cloud storage service will come with 7 GB completely free of charge, a number that is apparently good enough for 99.94% of users.

While this is down from the previous 25 GB of storage, those that have used SkyDrive before April 22nd will be able to upgrade to 25 GB of storage, for life, free of charge just by following the banners when you head over to SkyDrive and activate those extra 18 GB of wonder. Those that already had 4 GB or more of files uploaded will have had their accounts upgraded to 25 GB automatically. [yframe url='http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Bfmk6r4DVM']

Paid storage options are also available now, you can increase storage space by 20, 50 or 100 GB for just $10, $25 and $50 per year respectively. You can upload files up to 2 GB in size through the desktop applications, although the mobile versions are currently limited to 300 MB.

The mobile applications on Windows Phone 7 and iOS have been updated to allow for greater functionality, there is also now an iPad application available. No sign of Android here, but with Google Drive reportedly launching in the coming days, many Android faithful will likely use that instead.

Other than that Microsoft's updated SkyDrive works much the same as Dropbox. More details can be found on Microsoft's blog, while a list of download links for the applications can be found here.

KitGuru says: I knew my months with a Windows Phone 7 device would come in useful someday. But with Google Drive launching soon, which cloud storage service will you choose?

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