Google Drive to “have a software component to take on Dropbox”

That Google’s been developing a Dropbox-killer code-named “Platypus” has been rumored for years and today TechCrunch’s MG Siegler (who is becoming his own blogger) chimed in with a short post claiming that Google Drive “will have a software component to take on Dropbox”. The Google Operating System blog, however, is adamant that Google Drive is nothing if not a Google Docs feature, arguing against expecting a brand new service.

The article does mention the possibility of a companion desktop app, pointing to Felipe Zorzo who found solid evidence that Google Drive is also the name of a downloadable software, as seen in the above screengrab. Whichever the case, the prospect of a Google-branded cloud storage enhanced with syncing capabilities akin to Dropbox is holding some tech watchers captivated, yours truly included.

The success of Dropbox, a cross-platform cloud storage solution created  by Drew Houston and Drew Houston (they turned down an Apple offer), has helped in large part mainstream the concept of cloud storage. Previously, cloud storage had been confined to the realm of geeks and tech-literate audience.

Whether or not Google pursues the Dropbox route by providing a standalone software to sync folders on your computer is debatable, although it seems to be the case. With that in mind, Google’s services should benefit from tapping a centralized storage and their clout is bound to give any other competing solution out there a hell of a run for their money.