Google has been in the business of storage, with the generous capacity of its Gmail accounts. It seems that the free storage that Google allows is not enough for some users. The data storage needs of some users are out-pacing the free storage allowed. In response, Google is offering increased storage but for a price:

“Gmail users who utilize the Web e-mail service to back up data on their home or work PCs and are approaching its 3 GB limit level may appreciate Google’s additional storage offering. However, the extra space comes for a price: Users could buy as little as 6 GB of storage for $20 per year, or up to 250 gigabytes for $500 annually. It will also offer a 25 GB plan for $75 and a 100 GB option costing $250.”

link: Google Raises Storage Ceiling - for a Fee

Google’s prime source of income has been advertising. However, as Google expands and diversifies, it is creating other revenue streams. This source of income also serves another purpose. One of the criticisms that has followed Google has been the concern over privacy and security. With moving into the storage business, privacy and security undoubtedly will be focal points, as the marketing of this service moves forward.

Google is not only selling a service with the storage. Google is selling a perception - and it would be to Google best interest if that perception of trustworthiness attached itself to the ‘don’t be evil’ company.

Catherine Forsythe

Tags: google, storage, fee, revenue streams, privacy, security, perception