iPhone and Pervasive Computing
With the recent release of the iPhone 3G I felt a post about the likely implications for the future of the web, regarding this device was relevant. Having been briefed about the iPhones capabilities, it seems apparent to me that this is the furthest point in pervasive computing that technology has taken us so far. For those unfamiliar with the term ‘pervasive computing’ or ubiquitous computing’, it is basically the post-desktop model of human-computer interaction whereby the computing system becomes integrated into every day life.
Whereas the traditional desktop HCI model was easier to predict how, when and why the device is being used, with a ubiquitous device like the iPhone, it is much more difficult to predict its use as it can be used for many more activities, interacted with in more ways, and vitally in practically any location. This throws up a host of HCI and usability issues that Apple appear to have controlled in a very smart way.
It seems apparent to me that interacting with the web in a pervasive way such as this will one day become the standard of computing, meaning web designers and webmasters will have to adjust how the web is generally presented. With the Internet wherever you go and in a much more accessible format - it is surely preferred to sitting at a desktop in an office or study and browsing using traditional methods. Why do we even need a web browser? The iPhone operates just fine without one, although admittedly the range of tools available is severely limited at this time. The difference is that Apple hasn’t tried to mimic the traditional web browsing standards, it has rewritten these standards and has just let us get on with it. No longer is an address bar needed when your favourite sites are located in an iPhone folder which need to be simply pressed to be accessed. Larger web 2.0 companies such as eBay and Facebook have released their own plugins for the system for improved and unique access.
Web browsing aside, the iPhone uses a wireless Internet connection for many other services, which are all located and stored on the same unit. GPS and location awareness, instant email access via cloud computing, news, stock prices and even additional features such as the ability to use the system as a remote control for your TV all add up to a device that you can centre your world around, except now the computer integrates into your world.
