Lacie Inc has released a major new version of its online backup and sync client. Wuala “Hottingen”, which runs on Windows, Mac and Linux as well as selected smartphones, includes new features, a redesigned user interface and extended functionality.

Of most interest to existing free account holders is the fact that Wuala has now extended all “Pro” services, including automatic backup, sync, file versioning and time travel, to all users. This brings Wuala into line with other online backup and sync services such as AVG LiveKive, SpiderOak and SugarSync.

Although Wuala still offers less storage space to free account holders – a relatively misery 1GB – compared to other services (who tend to offer 2GB or 5GB to free account holders), there is an opportunity to “trade” unused storage space on the user’s hard drive in return for increased free capacity on Wuala’s servers. It also offers a wider range of paid-for plans, with prices starting from €19 a year for 10GB online storage.

Feature changes
Wuala “Hottingen” also features a revamped, lightweight user interface with several features – specifically sync and backup – removed from the main screen and given their own pop-up dialog boxes (these are accessible from the program’s Tools menu).

There’s also a new sync indicator – integrated into Windows Explorer – which lets users quickly see if synced folders are fully up to date, allowing them to access files and folders secure in the knowledge they’re opening the latest version. Business users can also take advantage of a new “Business groups” option, which allows businesses to set up a large storage pool and give individual employees and associates access to that shared storage space through their own Wuala accounts.

Wuala “Hottingen” is available as a free download now for Windows, Mac and Linux computers. There are also free smartphone apps for iPhone/iPad and Android.