Cloud Photo Sync

There used to be a time when I could simply take out my phone, snap some photos, plug in a cable, and let iPhoto automatically import those previously captured moments. However, things changed when I switched to Android late last year and started becoming more intimately acquainted with it every day. The nature of open source and the solid stability it offers make it incredibly challenging to revert back to using an iPhone. This is particularly true given my dissatisfaction with the flat design of iOS 7 and the absence of tactile feedback to enhance the user experience.

To address these minor issues, it’s important to acknowledge that I am no longer using an iPhone and refrain from expecting my current device to function in the same manner. Additionally, I would like to quote a few words from my previous post about switching to Android as a tribute for what I am about to share here :

Having iTunes and iPhoto to manage my music and pictures make it really easy to keep my devices in sync without having to do it myself. Nevertheless, i’ll figure out what to do about it as time roll on.

The time has rolled. Let’s talk.

Syncing with the cloud is a strength of Google, while syncing locally with your computer has traditionally been Apple’s forte. Personally, I prefer to sync locally rather than store everything in the cloud, as I have concerns about potential privacy breaches. Although I don’t heavily rely on cloud services, my daily life revolves around Google with Gmail, Calendar, and Maps. And I definitely do not want to use Picasa. All I ever wanted is just a simple process: 1) Take a photo, 2) Have it automatically uploaded to the cloud and 3) Ensure a copy is saved on my computer.

With all due respect, it seems that I will need to reconsider using cloud service again, such as Dropbox. However, this time I have a choice between Dropbox and Copy, a newcomer in the field.

So, what are the differences between these apps? Besides the expected easy syncing functionality, there is one notable difference that relates to privacy concerns. One of the apps may have access to your data and other information, but this is not a major concern that you need to worry about. In terms of performance, both apps work exceptionally well and have beautiful user interfaces. Additionally, they offer generous storage options for mobile use, with the ability to expand storage for free. When you sign up for Dropbox, you receive 2GB of storage, while signing up for Copy grants you a whopping 15GB of storage!

Dropbox and Copy interface. Notice the similariy.

Once installed and logged into both apps, they will prompt you to enable the automatic camera sync function. You have the option to skip this setup initially and configure it later. Afterward, you will be taken to the main screen where you can carry out various tasks according to your needs. These apps also allow you to sync documents if you wish to include them. I will use them for photo syncing only.

Standard 4-pin security for gf/bf checking-proof.

As these apps will handle your data, you can set up a 4-pin lock code that you will need to enter every time you want to use them. This measure helps prevent anyone who might attempt to access your photos that you have already deleted from your devices but are still available in the cloud. Personally, I prefer the UI of Dropbox in this case.

In-app settings.

As I mentioned earlier, you have the option to set up automatic camera sync later. Tapping the menu button on Dropbox will display a list of settings for you to explore. On the other hand, Copy offers a wider range of features and preferences accessible through a slide-out panel from the right side of the screen. It seems that Copy aims to target a broader range of users especially with their generous storage offering. In contrast, Dropbox seems to focus primarily on its syncing function.

System usage. Both are respectably identical.

Since these apps will run in the background, it’s important to monitor system usage. I’m happy to inform you that both of these apps do not consume excessive system resources that could slow down device or drain battery life.

Based on the advantages listed, here is a summary:

Dropbox

+ Better and cleaner interface.
+ Faster uploads.
+ Ability to upload screenshots.
+ No bothersome notifications.

Copy

+ Offers 15GB of sign-up storage with unlimited free expandability.
+ Provides more features.
+ Only uploads photos you have taken.
+ Sends notifications for uploads and downloads

Personally, I have decided to stick with Dropbox due to its clean user interface and lack of unnecessary notifications. With Dropbox, I can effortlessly capture a photo, and it is automatically available on my computer. Alternatively, I can choose to let Dropbox handle the syncing process in the background without any further involvement. While Copy offers more storage space, Dropbox perfectly satisfies my current photo syncing requirements. Typically, I shoot in either 8MP or 6MP wide and promptly delete the photos from my phone once they are synced and safely stored in my iPhoto library. This practice allows me to free up valuable space on my device. Additionally, it’s worth mentioning that Dropbox excels in terms of upload speed when compared to Copy.

Bonus : Dropbox and Copy’s systems usage for Mac.

Note that Copy runs in 64bit mode with even less memory usage!