You’re probably pretty familiar with the term BYOB. But how about BYOC. That stands for Build Your Own Cloud, and it is computer manufacturer Acer’s new heading for their budding cloud storage system. Seen as direct competition against Amazon and Google’s already existent cloud systems, Acer is trying to push past its limits as only a hardware manufacturer. Though few details on the system have been released, Acer is desperate to stay competitive as the global PC market shrinks, being replaced by tablets and software stored on the internet
Stan Shih stated “The computer is still our foundation, but BYOC is a new platform for integration, cross-compatibility and convenience.” Their goal is to create a system that is compatible across all types of hardware, whether that be pc’s, tablets, smartphones, or however else someone is able to connect to the internet. BYOC will also allow an individual to control appliances or their automobile with their smartphone, similar the the plan the Apple just announced.
Experts believe that Acer is going to have a very difficult time differentiating itself from other cloud system in operation, but may receive an added benefit of already producing some of the hardware that will be compatible with BYOC. KGI Securities anaylst, James Lin, explained “Acer has proven itself good at supply-chain integration, so it may be able to exert better cost control over its data centers than players who have less hardware experience.” Acer needs any advantage it can take at this point though. Their PC shipments have fallen 20.2% already in the first quarter of 2014. They have also fallen from No.2 to No.4 in the standings of world PC vendors. Though BYOC will unlikely revolutionize the company, it will at least allow Acer to fight another day.
Photo: Acer
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