Amazon has added some core database services to its web services. The SimpleDB beta gives you the ability to index and query data with the cloud. The service works closely with Amazon S3 and EC2 offerings.

SimpleDB requires no database schema like traditional relational database management systems. Simply use the available API’s to store you data and manipulate it.

Data is stored in domains and uses items which are attribute value pairs. A domain is like a worksheet which comprises of rows and attributes of data.

Using the API’s you simple:

• Create the domains
• Add, get or delete the data
• query and manipulate the data

The process seems to be a very simple concept and is similar in nature to what other databases in the cloud will offer in the future.

The pricing seems fairly good as well. For basic machine utilization you get the for 25 machine hours a month for free, then $0.14 USD per machine hour after that.

Data transfer is free for the first GB in and out and then charges apply. $0.100 USD per GB inwards and $0.170 USD per GB outward.

The first GB of storage per month is also free for now and then charged at $0.25c per GB after.

The latest service addition is a timely move, trying to ensure that customers starting using their database services before Microsoft has released their new SQL services.

Are you using Amazon web services to develop your applications? How do you rate them?