 "MediaFire's new Android app offers 50GB of free cloud storage")
Cloud storage service MediaFire has finally thrown its doors open to Android users. Just like its iOS and desktop versions, MediaFire for Android will offer users a whopping 50GB of free cloud storage. Of course, there are a few strings attached to the deal.
Like most cloud storage apps available in the market, MediaFire allows you to upload files using a built-in file browser and view images and videos in the gallery mode. MediaFire also allows online collaboration with other users to edit and share documents, presentations and spreadsheets. Users can send files via Facebook and Twitter and receive direct download links, making the app socially savvy. MediaFire also has an built-in camera feature to take photos and upload directly.
Clean UI
Unlike Dropbox though, MediaFire is not equipped to handle batch uploads, making it slightly difficult to archive files. MediaFire has an edge over Dropbox and other cloud storage services as far as no strings attached storage capacity is concerned. The free version of Dropbox only allows for 2GB of storage, while MediaFire allows 50GB worth of space for all users. Even Google Drive allows only 5GB free storage.
Now, if an app gifts you such a large space on cloud storage, it will obviously have to cut corners elsewhere, and MediaFire is no exception. Free accounts on MediaFire have only a 200MB file size limit and are ad-supported. You can always choose to bump up your version of MediaFire to ‘Personal’ plan that allows 1GB uploads and other benefits, including removal of ads for $1.50 per month (Rs. 83 approx.)
MediaFire also does not offer a sync feature, unlike Dropbox. You have to manually upload all the files. The easiest way to do so would be to dump all your files onto the desktop and upload them using the desktop website. CNET reports a company rep had hinted that adding the sync feature figures in MediaFire’s scheme of things, but did not mention whether you’ll need a paid account to take advantage of it when it releases.
Dropbox, on the other hand, released an update for its Android app that allows users to share multiple photos with friends and family. Users of the app can to go to the Photos tab and select photos to be added to an album that can be shared. Alternatively, they can just use the link to share via email, Facebook or Twitter with their families and friends. This feature puts Dropbox miles ahead of the newest cloud storage player in the Android market.
MediaFire also has a retention policy that free users need to be aware of. Users who have a free account must log in to MediaFire at least once a year for the account to be considered active. If you are an ‘inactive’ user, MediaFire will send you reminder emails that it might remove your data.
Despite all its shortcomings, it can prove to be a handy app on Android for users who want a no-frills cloud storage service, simply to back their data up. You can download the app for free from the Google Play Store.
Cover Image Credits: Getty Images
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