Google Tweaks Cloud to Tackle Data Balkanization - Digits - WSJ

The cloud platform battle expands

"Cloud computing providers typically compete to get as many customers using their data centers as possible. But on Tuesday, Google unveiled a partnership with startup AppScale that lets App Engine apps, which number roughly six million, run on other cloud services or companies’ own data centers and servers without modification.

The change opens up the possibility that Google’s technology will help developers write apps that they will then take to another cloud provider to run. However, Miles Ward, global solutions head for cloud platforms at Google, said the move will help the company retain and attract more cloud customers, especially as so-called cloud balkanization rules limit how apps and Web services can be delivered in some countries."

Google Tweaks Cloud to Tackle Data Balkanization - Digits - WSJ