The Origin of the Term “Cloud Computing”

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The term 'cloud' as applied to IT infrastructure originated from General Magic, an Apple spin out that invented the iPhone 20 years before its release. They wanted to create a distributed, always accessible back end IT infrastructure for all the services on mobile devices. They referred to this infrastructure as a 'cloud' that the devices could access.

So, how DID an online book retailer end up building the infrastructure layer that powers the entire internet? (Or at least 39% of it, per latest market share data.) While many myths, legends, and some downright falsehoods exist, the real answer to that question deserves a full Acquired episode of its very own. So here it is: the story of Amazon Web Services. Who’s got the truth? Tune in and find out. :)

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