The Windows Live team has released an update to Windows Live SkyDrive ( formerly Winodws Live Folders). You can access the service directly from http://skydrive.live.com. The free storage service is in open beta available in the US, UK, and India.

 

Windows Live SkyDrive has a stoage limit of 500MB which isn’t enough to back up your PC, but is enough to store files you want access to from any PC with internet access. The dirve has default ‘folders’ that allow you to store documents for private use - you will need to login using your Windows Live ID to access. There is also a Public Folders area where you can post doucments and files to be shared with anyone - you can send direct links to the files you want to share as well. This is great for sharing large documents without using Email attachments - as long as the data isn’t sensitive and you don;t care if someine else is able to access the file. IF you need to share private data with someine else you could use “Windows Live SharedView” which allows to to share a desktop, files, etc with another person over the internet. It is sort of a Office Live Meeting lite.

 

The Windows Live SkyDrive feature update includes:

 

·         An upgraded look and feel – new graphics to go along with your new features!

·         “Also on SkyDrive” – easily get back to the SkyDrives you’ve recently visited

·         Thumbnail images – we heard you loud and clear, and now you can see thumbnails of your image files

·         Drag and drop your files – sick of our five-at-a-time upload limit? Drag and drop your files right onto your SkyDrive

·         Embed your stuff anywhere – with just a few clicks, post your files and folders anywhere you can post html

 

Get more information on the Windows Live SkyDrive team blog at http://skydriveteam.spaces.live.com. Tell them what you think, and even suggest service improvements - like the ability to add extra storage for a low cost. :-)