ABSTRACT
With the rise of smart textiles, wearable computing is poised to enter mainstream culture. Wearables are not only used in isolation, but alongside of and in cooperation with other technologies, both by individuals and in social settings, both in quiet, stationary situations and while “on-the-go.” Many of the attributes that make wearable computing compelling also make for a difficult environment in which to conduct rigorous research and evaluations. Unlike traditional desktop computers, wearable technologies encourage the user to interact with the technology any place, any time, and for any duration. The anywhere, anytime nature of interaction with wearables makes it possible to form intimate bonds with the technology, such that it becomes meaningful to consider a “single use” as taking place over a range of time, spanning from a sub-second burst to an interaction that takes place over many years.
