As an initiative stipulated by the European Commission to foster the bridge between the Copernicus ground segment and the user segment, the Copernicus data and information access service (C-DIAS) is a generic name for different sets of cloud-based platforms providing centralised access to Copernicus data and information, as well as to processing tools. The name indicates, however, that the focus of such advanced user-centred infrastructure implementations is not only on data access, but also on ‘information’. What is specifically meant here is the provision of information services and information layers as defined in the Copernicus service portfolio. This allows the users to develop and host their own applications in the cloud and a single access point, rather than processing data locally. Currently there are five different DIAS’s implemented (CREODIAS, SOBLOO, MUNDI, WEKEO, ONDA), all with some specific technical assets, or a sector-specific application focus or any other unique selling position by e.g. targeting as specific user community. Currently, the DIAS, which have received co-funding from the European Commission as a kind of seed funding, are currently in the process of exploring opportunities and claiming market shares, striving to sustain in a competitive manner. Some of the features are highlighted in the following, without explicitly mentioning any of the associated DIAS: (i) data access of global data sets (satellite data mosaics or gridded data) by custom area; (ii) OGC interfaces, VM catalogue, SPAR QL search interface (combine searches like receive images over areas of high population density), open source (accessible via API) or pay-per-use; (iii) access to core service products (e.g. CLMS, CMEMS, CAMS); (iv) focus on integrated applications such as smart cities, urban energies, precision agriculture; access to third-mission VHR satellite data (e.g. Pléiades); (v) utilizing GitLab as a developer platform.