Pervasive computing

Pervasive computing, also known as ubiquitous computing, is a concept where computing is made to appear anytime and everywhere, integrating seamlessly into our daily lives. This form of computing is characterized by the embedding of computational capability into everyday objects, making them capable of some form of computing, communication, and interaction without requiring active human supervision. The devices used in pervasive computing are network-connected and constantly available, differing from traditional desktop computing by being more integrated into the user’s environment and activities.

The key features of pervasive computing include its ability to be embedded and become almost invisible as an extraneous object, low power consumption, in-built memory retention, and the capability to sense the environment and process data quickly and continuously. These devices maintain active connectivity through wireless networks and the internet, can interpret different languages (written, spoken, or through gestures), and are interoperable with other devices. They are designed to be easily portable and operable without any active human supervision[7].

Pervasive computing devices have evolved to include laptops, notebooks, smartphones, tablets, wearable devices, and sensors. These devices are used in various applications, including electronic toll systems, tracking applications, smartwatches like the Apple Watch, and smart home devices like the Amazon Echo[1]. The Internet of Things (IoT) has largely evolved out of pervasive computing, with IoT-connected devices communicating and providing notifications about usage, similar to pervasive computing devices[1][2].

The concept of ubiquitous computing was coined by Mark Weiser around 1988 at the Xerox Palo Alto Research Center (PARC). Weiser envisioned a world where computing would be so integrated into our environments that it would become invisible, seamlessly supporting us in our daily activities[4]. This vision has led to the development of various ubiquitous computing systems, including autonomous vehicles that recognize their authorized passengers and charge themselves when needed, and smart environments that adjust to the needs of their inhabitants[2][4].

In summary, pervasive computing represents a shift towards a more integrated, intelligent, and unobtrusive use of technology, where computing devices are embedded into the fabric of everyday life, offering constant and seamless support to users.

Citations:

[1] https://www.techtarget.com/iotagenda/definition/pervasive-computing-ubiquitous-computing

[2] https://www.spiceworks.com/tech/iot/articles/what-is-ubiquitous-computing/amp/

[3] https://www.techopedia.com/definition/667/pervasive-computing

[4] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ubiquitous_computing

[5] https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/computer-science/ubiquitous-computing

[6] https://www.computersciencedegreehub.com/faq/what-is-pervasive-computing/

[7] https://www.nic.in/blogs/pervasive-computing/

[8] https://www.geeksforgeeks.org/introduction-to-pervasive-computing/