The wrong option can mean a long wait and plenty of misery.

Managing music is a pain. Whether it be through iTunes or other music software it is often difficult to transfer songs or organize them between several computers or smartphones.

So far, Amazon has the best solution with its Cloud Player. A user can upload the music collection to this web app and then play the songs from any computer or Android device. It is still clunky and light on features, but it is an excellent start for those seeking freedom from the tyranny of iTunes.

There have been plenty of rumors this week that Apple purchased the iCloud.com domain and may be looking at launching its cloud-based data service soon. In typical Cupertino fashion the company is probably working out all of the minuscule details before it goes live. This service can’t launch soon enough. Most people now have multiple computers, smartphones and music players between themselves and the rest of their family. Those who have ever tried to move a music collection to a new computer or re-sync an iPhone know the misery this can produce. [Read more...]