Well, this past Monday Google released their Sync beta for the iPhone, which allows you to sync all of your contacts and calendar events without using iTunes. It’s an interesting move on Google’s part and I’d be the first to assert that it’s a direct shot at MobileMe if the two companies weren’t so buddy buddy. I mean, aside from Google’s CEO sitting on the Apple Board of Directors, look no further than the integrated search bar in Safari (even Mobile Safari, for that matter), the easy setup option available for Gmail in Apple’s Mail client, or the integration of Google Maps as a default iPhone app with some extra little niceties as proof.
This technology isn’t new by any means. Users of Microsoft’s Exchange service have had over-the-air syncing capabilities for years and, more recently, iPhone users have had the sometimes unstable but generally well-received MobileMe service for $100 a year.
I’ll come right out and say that, as of this writing, I haven’t used either service but now seems like an opportune time. Google Sync is completely free and Apple offers a free 90 day trial of MobileMe, so I really have nothing to lose either way. In the past, I did undertake the daunting task of syncing the iPhone calendar app with my Google Calendar, but found the whole process way too involved for something that should be simple; even requiring additional software to work properly (prior to the iPhone 2.0 update).
At this point, I’m poised to give both a shot but have to admit I’m less likely to go the MobileMe route since the main selling points for me were tight calendar integration and unified contact list from wherever I am. I don’t need the @me.com email address because I already have four email accounts that I have to check regularly and the web apps to access my files aren’t a deal breaker, either.
Regardless of my decision when I eventually try the aforementioned apps, any choice that we have in how we manage our digital lives is good for everyone, especially when it comes down to two companies that know how to do it just right.
Update 03/02/09: I’ve concluded my tests and come to a verdict at the following link. Google Sync Follow Up
I’ve tried both and I have to say I will stick with google sync for one it’s free for two it’s quicker to me
I’ve recently given both a try and am definitely leaning towards Google Sync myself. Glad to hear that I’m not the only one.
[...] about Google Sync going head to head with some of the functionality of Apple’s MobileMe (Original Article) and pledged to try both and see how I felt. Today I’m here to tell you that I’ve been [...]
I set up mobile me sync today. It rocks for syncing entourage on my Mac with Outlook on my PC (contacts and calendar). As I first access all mail on my phone I don’t need that synced, (all three devices IMAP from my ISP) I simply delete the crap, and when I get to a desktop (Mac or PC), I only have real stuff to deal with. Whenever I delete a mail (anywhere, Mac, PC or phone) it’s gone, that way I keep all three systems clean. Only downside (or upside) is I have two sent trays (Mac & PC) I don’t send mail from this synced address on my phone or desktops and use another anonymous email to reduce spam. If I need a sent mail form one system on the other I can BCC myself.
[...] articles or screencasts. One of my most popular posts, with several hundred unique visitors is the Google Sync vs. MobileMe article and its ensuing follow-up. The screencasts, especially ones that teach web or [...]