Other forthcoming changes mentioned in the blog post include an increase in the maximum file size (up to 2GB when uploading through Explorer) and the ability to unlock additional storage (presumably through a premium paid subscriptions).
In Windows Phone SkyDrive is currently used by a number of applications for storing settings and files, as one of the document stores for the Office Hub and as a sharing destination and as storage for the optional automatic upload of captured videos and photos.
The significance of today's announcements is that it moves the SkyDrive product for PCs much closer to be a fully featured cloud storage product. Up to this point, outside of Windows Phone, the key access point for most SkyDrive users was the SkyDrive.com website. These changes means that SkyDrive in Windows 8 will be more integrated into the PC experience and reflects Microsoft's belief that cloud storage must be a central plank in their overall strategy.
For Windows Phone users it will mean the phone to desktop SkyDrive experience will become more seamless and easier to use.
Video via The Verge.
SkyDrive as a Metro style app for Windows 8
Windows 8 will include a Metro style SkyDrive app. Its been built using web technologies and aims to provide a fast and efficient way to browse and manage your SkyDrive. SkyDrive will also be available as a file picker from any app that can open or save files, providing easy integration for other Metro style applications.
SkyDrive on the desktop
SkyDrive will also be available on the Windows 8 desktop. This will be enabled by a desktop app, running in the background, that will provide support for drag and drop uploads, offline access, and integration with Windows Explorer for managing files and folders. There will also be an option to set up desktop sync.
The enabling app will also be available for Windows 7 and Windows Vista.
Remote file access through SkyDrive.com
Windows 8 will also allow your computer's files to be accessed remotely through SkyDrive.com, or as Microsoft terms it, you'll be able to turn your entire PC into your own private cloud.
This kind of remote functionality has been available through numerous third party services for a long time, but having built into the operating system is likely to be more convenient. Although nothing has been oficially announced it would make sense if the ability for Windows Phone devices to access PC files remotely was part of the roadmap.
More soon?
The blog post announcing the plans that the areas outlined above are "just the beginning" for Sky Drive and Windows 8, holding out the promise of further enhancements to come.
Further details are avaibale in the SkyDrive post on the Building Windows 8 blog.