Free Dropbox accounts no longer work with more than three devices

Dropbox has quietly updated its terms and conditions to ensure that free accounts can sync data to up to three devices. The new rule came into force this month, reports ZDNet.

Users who want to have their data on more than three devices must switch to a paid account with the company. The prices start at 8.25 euros per month.

Users who had already linked their account with more than three devices before March will not be affected by the changes. However, it is not possible to pair new devices before they remove the old ones. If old links are removed, the three-device limit does apply.

Business users will not be affected by the new rule, as all business accounts are on commercial subscriptions and users and companies can link an unlimited number of devices.

On social media, several people reacted indignantly to the new limit. It is possible that various people will switch to the services of competitors, such as Google Drive. For some users, the ability to synchronize between multiple devices is more important than the total storage capacity or bandwidth limits.

Takeover

Dropbox expanded its service earlier this year by acquiring HelloSign for $230 million. HelloSign is best known for its e-signature service, which is available as a free version with limited features. There is also a paid version with additional services, such as security mechanisms that make it suitable for signing sensitive documents.

The startup also has a service called HelloWorks, which automates manual work that normally involves processing forms. HelloWorks aims to deliver documents in a more phone friendly format and includes some measures to prevent users from accidentally providing the wrong information. The acquisition is expected to be completed by the end of this month.