What is ambient computing? Everything you need to know about the rise of invisible tech

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Are we moving ever closer to the science fiction of implants and/or wearables that keep us constantly connected.?

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"What is ambient computing, in simple terms?

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." 

Why is it called ambient computing?

As the definition of the word 'ambient' implies, ambient computing refers to technology that is immersed in your surroundings, ready to help without any prompting. For example, instead of having to turn down the temperature, a smart thermometer can automatically adjust based on learned patterns. From this stems the idea of a 'smart home', which incorporates tech into every object of your home to optimize how you accomplish everyday tasks. 

This sounds a lot like the Internet of Things (IoT). What's the difference?

If you were thinking that the IoT and ambient computing sound a lot alike, you aren't wrong; the two concepts are intertwined. IoT refers to the vast array devices that connect to the internet to optimize their functionality, like smart sensors and smart speakers: ambient computing builds on that.

"IoT forms a base for ambient computing, with ambient computing more focused on how devices and intelligent services interact with users," Jason Low, principal analyst at the research firm Canalys, tells ZDNET.

In other words, ambient computing focuses on the interaction between these devices once they are connected. For example, a lightbulb that connects to an app is an IoT device; however, how the lightbulb gathers data from its surroundings about your preferences and acts accordingly is where ambient computing comes in.

"The Internet of Things lives through sensors and actuators embedded in devices interacting with the world physically and functionally. Ambient computing contains this communication at the core and harnesses the environment for business processes and insights, is how consultants Deloitte explain it."

More in the original article here with related links:

https://www.zdnet.com/article/what-is-ambient-computing-everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-rise-of-invisible-tech/

 

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