Microsoft renames cloud service SkyDrive to OneDrive

MANILA, Philippines – What’s in a name? Well if it’s the name of a product you use everyday, then maybe a lot. Microsoft knows this all too well after it was forced to rename its cloud storage service from SkyDrive to OneDrive.

The announcement was made via the OneDrive blog on Monday, January 27. The changes are expected to take place, “soon.”

Launched in 2007, SkyDrive now has more than 250 million users and is integrated into Windows computers, tablets and smartphones. It also works on Mac, iOS and Android devices.

The basic service comes with 7GB of free storage which you can use to store files and photos, and have them sync across your devices. The service is also integrated with Microsoft’s Office suite. You can store Office documents on OneDrive and like Google Docs, use it as an online collaboration platform where you can work on a document at the same time. 

The company says, “changing the name of a product as loved as SkyDrive wasn’t easy,” but adds the name OneDrive, “best represents (Microsoft’s) vision for the future.

Last 2013, UK broadcasting company BSkyB sued Microsoft over the use of the Sky trademark in the European Union. A ruling was made by a UK court that Microsoft would have to change the name. Microsoft decided not to appeal the decision after both parties agreed to a, “reasonable period of time to allow for an orderly transition to a new brand.” 

In a new marketing push, Microsoft is positioning OneDrive as the “one place for everything in your life.”

– Rappler.com