Gmail increases maximum file size
Google has announced an increase in the maximum file size that its users can send to 25M.
Previously set at 20M, Gmail’s maximum email file size was already far and away the most generous of the popular free email services. There are a number of paid commercial online services for sending large files, many of which offer a free component in their range, but there are limitations imposed, including how many files you can send in a month, the number of people you can send to simultaneously, and so on.
Of course, the rub for most Gmail user is just who are they going to be able to send emails to to take advantage of the new file limits? The short answer is: besides other Gmail users, not too many people — it will depend on how many people you communicate with who have their own domain and server (ie. where they can set their own limits).
One good way to maximise the new file limit increase in Gmail is to get your friends and family to sign up for a Gmail account. That way you can exchange files, such as photos, without compromising on quality.
If you are a Gmail user, you might want to take a look at an article on the ghacks.net site to find out how you can use free Firefox 3 extension GPhotospace to take advantage of the new file allowances and Gmail’s generous storage allocation to store and share photos with your nearest and dearest.
If don’t have a Gmail account yet, you can set one up in a matter of minutes here.
Gail Lipscombe has worked for some of Australia's hottest tech magazines for over 10 years. In her blog, she focuses on demystifying technology, gadgets and the web for average consumers.