Ambient computing explained
Ambient computing refers to a concept in which technology seamlessly integrates into the environment and becomes pervasive in our daily lives. It involves creating a network of interconnected devices and systems that work together to collect, analyze, and respond to data in a way that is contextually aware and unobtrusive.
The goal of ambient computing is to create a computing environment that is always present but unobtrusive, blending into the background and providing a seamless and intuitive user experience. It involves the use of various technologies such as sensors, smart devices, artificial intelligence, and cloud computing to create an interconnected workplace.
In an ambient computing environment, devices and systems can communicate with each other, understand user preferences, and adapt to changing conditions to provide personalized and contextually relevant information and services. For example, a smart home equipped with ambient computing technology can automatically adjust the lighting, temperature, and music based on the occupants’ preferences and the time of day.
Ambient computing has the potential to revolutionize various aspects of our lives, including home automation, healthcare, transportation, and workplace productivity. It aims to simplify interactions with technology, making it more intuitive and natural by integrating it seamlessly into our surroundings. However, it also raises important considerations regarding privacy, security, and the ethical use of data, as ambient computing relies on continuous data collection and analysis to function effectively.
It’s invisible to us, works in sync with us, is symbiotic and learns from us. Put simply, ambient computing is the collective devices we use at home and at work, becoming extensions of each other, and offering us an overall seamless experience. We no longer have to sit at a desktop computer to be operating a computer – that is the effect of ambient computing.
The IoT
To better understand ambient computing, one should look at the concept of the IoT – the Internet of Things.
The Internet of Things (IoT) connects various technologies in perfect synchronization, offering users a seamless and intelligent encounter. Consider smart buildings with their sensor networks, memory capabilities, and remarkable versatility. When you enter such a building using your pass, it automatically recalls your preferred lighting and temperature settings, understands your coffee preferences, and reminds you of the scheduled time for your first meeting of the day.
While this concept may sound impossibly futuristic to some, and costly to others, the IoT is actually a cost-saving notion in the long term, and it’s already in use all around the world. Our own devices, from our smartphones, laptops, tablets, smart TVs, smart watches, voice-activated digital assistants, to the plethora of smart, app-connected household goods now available, from cat flaps to coffee machines to smart lighting and daylight-imitating alarm clocks, are all creating an ambient computing experience in our homes. But what about in our workplaces?
Many businesses are still exploring the full capabilities of ambient computing and the IoT, and perhaps the way that different organisations plan to utilise the concept will vary wildly across types of industries.
Ambient computing provides an eco-system of response, one that can help a business function to its full potential, eliminating many steps in working processes, and helping form a stronger routine with the ability to collect analytics, and actively learn from them.
Ambient computing in the workplace
In the realm of workplaces, the conventional dynamic between computers and employees has been straightforward: employees use computing to gather information. However, with ambient computing, the paradigm shifts as internet-enabled devices come together to gather information on our behalf the moment we express the need for it, or even anticipate it in advance. The convergence of devices and their capabilities holds the potential to seamlessly accomplish such fundamental workplace tasks.
Most of us already find smartphones, laptops and tablets to be ubiquitous in the workplace. Expect voice-activated digital assistants and smart technology for the work environment, such as lighting, to become increasingly common in 2019 and beyond.
As we progress towards a fully-integrated smart workplace, ambient computing will become the new norm, revolutionizing how we perceive and initiate our workday. No longer will we associate the start of our day with simply arriving at the office, logging onto our computers, and checking emails while making a cup of coffee in the kitchen.
With ambient computing, our environment and devices will proactively anticipate our needs, staying one step ahead of us. This advancement will bring multiple benefits, such as cost savings for business leaders and decision-makers, enhanced collaboration, and increased flexibility for all employees.
We will have the freedom to work in a manner that suits us best, as the mundane administrative tasks and daily setups will be seamlessly handled. This will grant us more time and focus to dedicate to our critical responsibilities. Ambient computing is not just our present reality but also an integral part of our future.
