Comments on: Box.net evolves, say hello to OpenBox

By: Derek

Derek — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 17:35:59 +0000

I know that the Firefox S3 extension generates the URL to a hosted file on S3 from the right-click contextual menu. I tried it for a bit but I don't want to have to rely on Firefox to find a URL to an item when I often use Jungle Disk or Transmit to manage files.I guess the same is true for Box as well. If you're managing files via WebDav, you'll still need to go online to find out what the URL for sharing is.

By: Eli

Eli — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 16:19:08 +0000

I agree that S3 is a obfuscated at best. If memory serves me, 37s’s integration of s3 provides for mildly clean URL’s, but they are faux in the truest sense. Attempting to access them directly (locked down or not) is certainly ugly.

I’ve been experimenting with Tan Tan’s WP S3 implementation, as well as examing the FF plugins. None have really nailed the “UI,” but I think it’s making progress.

That said, I have a box.net account, and use it often. Even when the URL gets snickers and “box jokes” from my less mature friends.

By: Derek

Derek — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 16:05:43 +0000

@Eli, when my Asus Eee PC arrives I’m planning on leveraging online services like Box (webdav) or Amazon S3 with Jungle Disk. The only thing that prevents me from really enjoying S3 is how challenging it is to create links that would allow me to share files from S3. Maybe I’ve overlooked the how-to in the documentation? Box by default offers clean URLs and actual file sharing landing pages that you can send contacts to to grab files.

By: Devin Reams

Devin Reams — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 16:01:14 +0000

Nice write-up, Derek. It seems the cool thing to do is build platforms these days. In Box’s case I hope it’s used to its potential. I worry a service like this is often overlooked…

By: Eli

Eli — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 16:01:00 +0000

It will be interesting to see the adoption rate of this new platform as compared to S3. I think Amazon’s proven history and “corporate” tone has significant leverage over Box’s youthful image, but their ability to roll out changes and lack of business ties may make for an interesting fight.

thanks for the review.