Cloud storage is gaining more and more users, but in general it remains a tool parallel to the rest of the services. Dropbox has tried to improve its integration across various platforms, and this time its new official extension in Google Chrome lets Gmail users easily attach files stored in their Dropbox accounts.
To save or not to save, that is the question. The closure of RapidShare has surprised many, but the truth is it responds to a very marked trend these days. The big names in the industry already offer advanced cloud storage services, and they are doing everything possible to integrate them into their other products, to the point of becoming critical components. On the other hand, there are other very popular alternatives such as Dropbox, which, lacking a direct relationship with an operating system or mobile device, must expand their presence through dedicated applications. For some time now, Dropbox users have been able to access their cloud files as if they were a local folder, but now comes Dropbox for Gmail, a extension compatible with Google Chrome that allows us to attach files stored in Dropbox directly to an email.
How Dropbox for Gmail Works
Once installed the extension and with Gmail open, we will see the Dropbox icon at the bottom of the compose window. Clicking on it will open a new window asking for Dropbox credentials. After confirmation, this small window will show the web version of Dropbox with all the files stored in your account. If the recipient does not use the extension, the Dropbox attachment will be shared using a web address, but if the extension is present, the recipient will have a preview of it. Another very interesting option of Dropbox for Gmail is to save attachments directly to Dropbox, so all your associated devices can access them immediately.
A Beta Worth Trying
Dropbox for Gmail is in beta, but I have to say it works quite well. Personally, I believe the function of this extension could be moved to other web browsers without much difficulty; however, Dropbox has said nothing about the possibility of developing an equivalent for Firefox. Until then, users of Dropbox, Chrome, and Gmail will probably welcome the extension with open arms.
