Digital Locker Market Grows with Increasing Consumer Interest

Digital Locker Market Grows with Increasing Consumer Interest:

Earlier this week, Google announced the arrival of its own cloud-based digital locker service. Called Google Drive, this cloud computing service is not the first of its kind. A growing trend, companies like Apple, Amazon and Microsoft already have running with gradually growing success. Cloud computing storage technology allows users to store extended content online and access this content on their home computers or on the go using tablets, smartphones or a hotel computer, for example, with nothing more than an app or Internet connection. One of the main benefits of the digital locker is its centralization of personal data and potentially unlimited availability.

A recent study uncovered a growing interest in cloud computing. A tremendous 90% of their survey participants were ‘somewhat’ to ‘very interested’ in digital lockers. Surprisingly, the demographic with the most interest in using digital lockers is the oldest survey group, between the ages of 50-59. The two younger age groups are 18-24 and 25-34. Despite the age difference, almost everyone in the study actively streams or downloads content monthly.

It is no surprise that additional content and access is so appealing. However, only 68% would be willing to pay a low fee of $25- $99 per year. Overall, a lot of people love the idea of a digital locker, but many are not willing to pay for it. Fortunately, big tech companies are beginning to realize this too. Apple’s iCloud offers accounts from free to $100, with $24.99 for iTunes Match. Google Drive is expected to be free with a limited amount of storage but with the option to purchase larger plans.

The study ended with some thought-provoking suggestions. With interest in digital lockers as high as it is, digital media companies should consider taking advantage by heavily marketing their offerings, particularly toward baby boomers who are more interested in compiling their data in one place and may be more willing to pay for a service. Targeting younger age groups through devices they use heavily, like game consoles or mobile devices is another great tactic. Additionally, companies should try to educate consumers about copyright policy and potential violations associated with digital libraries.