Ubiquitous Computing represents the concept in software engineering and computer science where computing is made to appear anytime and everywhere. In contrast to desktop computing, ubiquitous computing can occur using any device, in any location, and in any format. A user interacts with the computer, which can exist in many different forms, including laptop computers, tablets and terminals in everyday objects such as a fridge or a pair of glasses.
IoT is part of the development of ubiquitous computing. Currently, the vast majority of computing is purely human driven. However, IoT will drive autonomous recognition of data in physical systems, giving us greater control and understanding of our environment than ever before.
We see Ubiquitous Computing become a reality in a reality as IoT reaches its inflection point of growth in the 2025 time frame. At this time, we will see a preponderance of ambient intelligence and ambient media. Ambient Intelligence refers to electronic (physical and/or hybrid virtual/real) environments that are sensitive and responsive to the presence of people.
Haptic Internet is a good example of one of the Immersive Technologies that will benefit from ubiquitous computing. Most people are familiar with Haptic technology by way of the kinesthetic user interface for smart phones or other consumer electronics that recreates a sense of touch by applying forces, vibrations, or motions to the user. Conversely, haptic devices may incorporate tactile sensors that measure forces exerted by the user on the interface. The fifth generation (5G) of cellular is widely anticipated as a game changer for many reasons including a few low-latency dependent applications such as those that utilize Haptic Internet.
Next generation Internet applications will be tactile and responsive to non-verbal communication in which remote users will be able to enjoy haptic experiences through real-time interactive systems. Aided by 5G networks, haptic systems and applications will facilitate transmission of touch and actuation in real-time, leading to a new class of highly interactive and engaging services generally referred to as Haptic Communications. It is expected that commercialization of 5G will allow the Haptic Internet to go mainstream as applications become available on an anytime, anywhere basis.
Haptic internet is poised to change the entire B2B and consumer communication ecosystem including emerging IoT and M2M applications. It will empower people to control things of objects remotely and feel as if they are interacting in real world scenario. It is expected to impact all industry verticals including remote driving, smart home, industrial IoT, maintenance, smart grid, etc.
