Setting up a new computer can be a real pain, but it doesn't have to be. Typically, I plug it in, set up my MobileMe account info and sync. That brings down most of the information I need to actually get up and running with my computer. It doesn't take that long either, since it's just the essentials.

With the release of the iPhone, MobileMe and its syncing services have become even more important. I sync between multiple computers--including desktops and laptops--and my iPhone, constantly. Depending on what I have handy, I'll make appointments, change contact info or upload files and know that by the time I pick up any of the other devices, the information will be there.

I know that --I was as upset as everyone else when nothing would sync, but that appears to be a thing of the past. MobileMe starts syncing shortly after I enter an event in iCal--it gets put into my online calendar and then syncs with the iPhone. I actually sat and watched it all happen. (I do not lead an exciting life, I know.)

I also use Backup, Apple's application to backup information to you MobileMe storage disk. Extra iDisk space is the one thing I did purchase more of in the last couple of years. With more media comes the need for more space.

I have some pictures on MobileMe, but not that many. For me, that's not what the service is all about. My wife, however, is the exact opposite. She uploads and shares pictures constantly. From the kids and dog to our recent kitchen renovation, Monique has a visual story of everything that's happened. She also set up a couple of Web pages, but with the new photo viewers in MobileMe, she just uses those now. I've tried to get her to sync her information once or twice, but she has little or no interest in doing that. I thought that was interesting--the same service fulfilling two completely different set of needs.