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Concept of Ubiquitous Computing

Picture of Dr. Mark Weiser

The ubiquitous computing concept was first proposed by Dr. Mark Weiser of the Xerox Palo Alto Research Center (PARC) in the USA. "Ubiquitous" comes from the Latin ubique meaning "being everywhere at the same time." In Weiser's view, the four characteristics of ubiquitous computing are:

  1. Service is present everywhere:
    Instead of carrying a device with you everywhere you go, a device is available wherever you are.
  2. It is not the device but an environment:
    The value of ubiquitous computing lies in the fact that it is a comprehensive environment rather than a collection of services supplied by individual devices.
  3. The user is not conscious of the device being used:
    Using a service does not require conscious awareness of the device, thus allowing the user to concentrate on the task at hand.
  4. Service is TPO (time, place, and occasion) based:
    The service available matches the situation and needs of the user.

Weiser's vision of ubiquitous computing encompasses a strictly human-centered, user-friendly system. Fuji Xerox aims to realize Weiser's vision. Our efforts are focused on developing the technologies that will create an environment in which people without being conscious of the existence of computers-can live richer, more closely-connected lives.

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