Seagate recently launched the GoFlex easy-to-use home network storage product that provides central storage for numerous devices.
Just two cable connections are used with the GoFlex, which includes a USB 2.0 port that can be used to connect a printer or an additional external HDD.
The device connects to a wireless router, allowing devices with Wi-Fi connectivity to remotely access the storage platform. Seagate has included support for Microsoft Windows and Mac OS X PCs, along with support for Apple's Time Machine backup software.
"The GoFlex(TM) Home system makes it easy for families wanting to quickly and effortlessly backup, enjoy, and share their favorite home movies music or photos from any room in the house. said Darcy Clarkson, Segate VP of Marketing, in a statement.
Seagate also stated that their engineers tried to keep the device as simple as possible, which may help increase sales even more. The device can be accessed using a notebook, Apple iPhone and iPod Touch, RIM BlackBerry device -- and it provides easy integration to share pictures, documents and other files.
In my experience with casual consumers, ease-of-use and simple design are almost always better than complicated devices.
The Seagate GoFlex Home is available for $159.99 (1 TB model) and $229.99 ($2TB model), with both models available now.
Netgear also recently introduced its own version of a home storage device, with other companies also showing interest. Similar products have been around for years, but the category is growing in demand due to the expanding number of Web-connected devices being used by consumers.
I've enjoyed the ability to easily share information across multiple platforms, and expect future product launches as consumers test the market further.
