That means you're not losing most of the program's functionality when you're offline.

NPR: Review: Microsoft Office Pricey, But Good Value

Here's where it impresses: Spool will access this content later, even if you're offline.

CNN: 50 new tech tools you should know about

Apple says it does this for smooth playback, and for playback when you're offline.

WSJ: Apple's Music Service Stores All Your Songs Without Alot of Slow Uploads

You can also download maps and call them up later when you're offline.

ENGADGET: US Cellular intros Motorola Electrify M, gets a slice of the Droid RAZR M on November 8th for $100

That way, you can still open files when you're offline.

NPR: Review: Microsoft Office Pricey, But Good Value

Looking to get the jump on Apple, Google announced new features to Google Maps on Wednesday, including more 3-D images and the ability to use the product even when you're offline.

CNN: What to expect from Apple's event today

If you already thrive on (or want to try) services like Instapaper or Pocket, you're not going to get significantly more here, especially since you can't save content offline.

ENGADGET: Yahoo Axis on desktop, iOS unifies your bookmarks, makes the web visual (hands-on)

And if you're going to save money by taking services online, that will mean ending some "offline" services - so prepare for the backlash when taxpayers are told they can no longer file their returns via the post, or get a road tax disc at the Post Office.

BBC: Open government - in tune with the Zeitgeist?