From the Boston Globe today, Comcast has partnered with Mozy, a subsidiary of EMC, to offer online back and sharing of files between users. While Mozy offers a computer backup product now, the Comcast version will allow users to share files, something they cannot do currently, but will also have a storage maxinum set.
Because Comcast has more pressure from other broadband providers - Verizon Fios, broadband mobile cards, and smartphones - for network access, any added features to keep customers will be a means of differentiation.
Is this service easily copied by competition? Of course. Does it already exist on the net for free? Yes. Will Comcast make money on this offering? Probably not, but it could entice average users who don't know about Mozy, Dropbox, or the many other online file saving/sharing options to take advantage of this Comcast product.
Comcast's move shows what we have discussed in class - the interrelated partnerships that arise at technology converges. This new offering would have been unheard of three years ago, but is logical, even expected, now.
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