On 14 Jul 1998, Charles Aldarondo wrote:
> I'm in the process of writing a research paper on wearable computing and
> had a few questions to ask the community.
>
> 1. Estimating, how many people in the world actually wear a system that
> they would call a wearable computer on a semi-daily basis?
I figure there must be at least 8 if you count the people in the photo on
MIT's wearable computing page and Steve Mann. It's be nice if someone
could setup a site where people who use wearables could register. Just
name and location so you could get an idea of how many and where are they
the most popular.
> 2. What do you believe will take wearable computing out of the fringe to
> the general public? (eg: Killer App, major corporation intervention, war,
> or not possible)
I think a Rememberance Agent will be the killer app. Something that will
look at what your currently doing, give you suggestions related to the
topic, have natural language proccessing("find me a plane ticket to
florida for next week") which can understand simple commands. Permenent
connection to the net. Peole can always contact you via email, pager, or
cell phone and you'll get it instantly. Also GPS and built in maps so
you'll never get lost(Great for guys who don't want to break down and ask
directions)<g>
> 3. How long do you think it will take?
No idea, I figure at least five years. The main problem is the cost and
weight of displays. If wearables go they way of audio I/O it'll be
cheaper but more complex since you won't be able to skip over text files
and view images or use normal software which is GUI based.
{Omar Jenkins class of 1998 |"The more you study, the more you know, }
{SystemAdministrator & WebMaster| the more you know, the more you forget, }
{Montgomery Blair High School | the more you forget, the less you know."}
{<ojenkins[@]mbhs.edu> | ??So Why Study?? }
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