Wearable computing - a catalyst for business and entertainment

A variety of portable and wearable device form factors such as the VisionPad, WatchPad, WearableData, MetaPad, Personal Mobile Hub, and SoulPad have been prototyped at IBM Research over the last several years. Each of different form factors has some unique advantages and addresses different user needs. This talk will present experiences in building these prototypes and describe how this landscape of devices is expected to change. The continuous availability of wearable and mobile devices enables the deployment of many novel applications and scenarios but places heavy demands on energy, infrastructure support, and usability. Recently how some of the inherent limitations of mobile devices can be alleviated by symbiosis with more powerful stationary devices has been investigated. Effective device symbiosis requires middleware that addresses device heterogeneity, improves usability, provides privacy and ensures security. The availability of a variety of new form factors coupled with device symbiosis will catalyze the way business was conducted, entertain and take care of ourselves.