ABSTRACT
Mobile computing is used in diff erent contexts with diff erent names [1]. Th e most common names are:
Mobile computing. Th e computing environment is mobile-it moves along with the user. Th e offl ine and real-time, local and remote computing environment will logically move with the user. Ubiquitous computing. A disappearing (no one will notice its presence) everyplace computing environment. Th e user will be able to use both local and remote services. Pervasive computing. A computing environment, which is all pervasive and can be made available in any environment. Nomadic computing. Th e computing environment is nomadic and moves along with the nomad user. Th is will be true for both local (in visited network) and remote services (including the home environment). Th e term nomadicity has been derived from this to indicate mobility. Virtual home environment (VHE). VHE is defi ned by the European Telecommunication Standards Institute (ETSI-www.etsi.org) as an environment in a foreign network such that the mobile users can experience the same computing experience as they have in their home or business computing environment. For example, one would like to check the surveillance system at home or send a business report while traveling in a foreign country. Global service portability. Making a service portable and available in every environment. Any service of any environment will be available globally. Anywhere, anytime information. Th is is the generic defi nition of ubiquity, where data and information are available anywhere, all the time. Wearable computers. Wearable computers are those computers that may be adorned by humans like a hat, shoe, or clothes (these are wearable accessories). Wearable computers need to have some additional attributes compared to standard mobile devices. Wearable computers are always on, operational while on the move, hands free, and context aware. Wearable computers need to be equipped with proactive attention and notifi cations with diff erent types of sensors. Th e ultimate wearable computers will have sensors implanted within the body and supposedly integrate with the human nervous system. Th ese are part of the new discipline of research categorized as Cyborg (cyber organism).
