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Ambient computing explained – what it is and where it is going next.
Ambient computing, also commonly referred to as ubiquitous computing, is the concept of blending computing power into our everyday lives in a way that is embedded into our surroundings – invisible but useful.
The goal is to reduce the friction involved in utilizing tech, making it easier for users to take full advantage of technology without having to worry about keyboards and screens. Instead of having to directly interact with different computing devices to get desired results – for example, using your phone to make a phone call and your remote to turn on a TV– ambient computing allows all of your devices to work together seamlessly to fulfill your needs.
“In a multi-device world, people don’t want to spend their life fussing with technology. An ambient approach gets the tech out of your way so you can live your life while getting the help you need,” Rick Osterloh, Google’s SVP of Devices and Services, said during Google’s I/O 2022 keynote. “It doesn’t matter what device you’re using, what context you’re in, whether you’re talking, typing, or tapping. The technology in your life works together seamlessly.”
Resources:
What is ambient computing? Everything you need to know about the rise of invisible tech. (n.d.). ZDNET. https://www.zdnet.com/article/what-is-ambient-computing-everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-rise-of-invisible-tech/