How about this. An iPad app that gives you access to a virtual Windows desktop running on a distant server that has software such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint? Yes its possible, thanks to the new OnLive Desktop app for the iPad.
OnLive, which is originally a gaming company, used to stream games to ones PC, phone, or tablet. But with a slight tweak to the same infrastructure they built for their gaming service, OnLive can now offer a virtual Windows desktop. “The funny part is that it uses the exact same servers, the same hosting software. The only real difference is that now we needed a Windows license,” OnLive stated.
Obviously, the most appealing aspect of this service is that iPad owners can finally use Microsoft Office. Microsoft has yet to offer an iPad version of the popular Office productivity suite and supposedly it is in the works, but for now, one can settle for this option. And best of all, no data is stored on the local device and all communications are encrypted.
OnLive has fine-tuned its infrastructure so that it is available when needed for those who really need it. Based on the data they accumulated, the peak time for games were not the peak time for business software usage. For example, their data suggests that gamers play at night while Microsoft Office was used during the day time.
The free version of OnLive gives you access to Windows, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and 2GB of storage, but does not guarantee 100% access all the time. Those on the free account will be denied access if the service experiences high bandwidth usage. File will, however, be accessible. The free version does not include an internet browser, but the pro and enterprise packages do.
OnLive can be downloaded from the iTunes App Store for free.
Video credit: The Verge