Tech Hampton Roads

Pretty much everyone is using a cell phone now. A person either owns one or bums it off his or her friend. Are you able to resist being without connection to your contacts while out of the office?

If you cannot, then perhaps you are part of the millions of Americans who routinely participate in what Mark Weiser called "ubiquitous computing," the third wave of computing. Weiser, who worked at Palo Alto Research Center in California, believed this type of computing occurs "when technology recedes into the background of our lives."

Mobile computing, such as using your cell phone for E-mail, text-messenging, and calls, is heading us into the direction of ubiquitous computing. But we are not there yet.

Vehicles have GPS systems, allowing the driver to sit back and let the computer tell you where to go. This is more along the lines of what Weiser was talking about.

Here's an excellent introductory video explaining ubiquitous computing.

It's important you stay up-to-date on the latest news. Ubiquitous computing will soon be more than just a technology issue. Social responsibility, laws, and the economy will all face challenges as this new technology makes its way into our society.