Some definitions for seamless and productive interaction modalities

Interactive technologies, mobile computing, wearables, and pervasive and ubiquitous computing are all interesting fields of Human-computer Interaction. They become even more interesting when you want to submit a paper to a related conference and need precise explanations (just in case) to select a track, which I compile here.

Interactive technologies

This term refers to a field of study concerned with developing technology that enables human-computer interaction in a way that is engaging and intuitive. The field of study focuses on designing and building systems and devices that respond to human input in ways that are natural and meaningful to users. Interactive technologies can range from traditional graphical user interfaces to multi-touch surfaces, gesture-based interfaces, and augmented and virtual reality environments. They aim to create a seamless and productive experience for users, allowing them to interact with technology in a way that feels intuitive and engaging.

Mobile computing

Refers to the field of study that deals with the design, development, and deployment of computing technologies and applications for mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. It aims to make computing and information accessible from anywhere at any time, leveraging the capabilities of mobile devices and the connectivity of wireless networks. It focuses on creating innovative applications and services that can be used on mobile devices, as well as developing new methods and algorithms to support the efficient and effective delivery of these services over wireless networks. This includes areas such as mobile software development, mobile network and data management, mobile user interfaces, and security and privacy in mobile computing.

Wearables

It focuses on the design and development of wearable devices, such as smartwatches, fitness trackers, and smart glasses. Wearables are devices that are worn on the body and are capable of computing, sensing, and communicating information. They have become increasingly popular in recent years due to advancements in several technologies, such as the internet of things. The focus of the wearables track is on exploring the potential of wearable technology for enhancing human-computer interaction, improving, among others, health and wellness, and enabling new forms of communication and collaboration. This includes areas such as wearable device design, wearable software development, wearable sensors and actuators, and wearable data management and analysis.

Pervasive and ubiquitous computing

The focus is on on creating a seamless integration of computing and information technology into everyday life. The goal of pervasive and ubiquitous computing is to create a world where computing is integrated into the environment and is always available yet unobtrusive. It involves developing new technologies and approaches for embedding computing and communication capabilities into a wide variety of objects, environments, and devices, including both traditional computing devices and new types of devices such as smart homes, intelligent transportation systems, and wearable devices. The focus of this track is on exploring the potential of pervasive and ubiquitous computing for enhancing human-computer interaction, improving quality of life, and creating new forms of collaboration and communication. This includes areas such as ambient intelligence, internet of things, smart environments, and context-aware computing.

Carlos de la Torre
Carlos de la Torre
PhD Researcher in Computer Science

Doctoral researcher bridging AI and Neuroscience