Wednesday 10 December 2014

What are Context Aware Apps?

Context Aware Apps - Sentient or Controlled?



The ability of Apps to consider the immediate environment in relation with the specific qualities of the user combines awareness with increased intelligence unseen in Apps today. Context-aware Apps feature low-power sensors that enable the devices to remain constantly on, sourcing information on its precise location as well as the moods of their users. Fundamentally context-aware Apps will sense a user’s emotional condition, location, preferences, and feelings then have the intelligence to provide information in synchronisation with the user’s requirements.


The implications remain outstanding. Imagine a television remote control that can actively sense (through the complexities of each users grip) who’s actually holding the device. Then based on previous choices the viewer has made, actually suggest suitable television programs unique to each individual user.

As the technology gains momentum context-aware Apps will merge the boundaries between human and technological interaction. In essence a gadget will exist as an extension of the users thought processes. As the device gathers information on a users habits, friends, communication, and decisions so it will anticipate future desires or needs. The device essentially becomes a virtual personal assistant capable of mapping out activities, social interaction, consumer needs, and suggesting locations to visit or foods to eat.



As society moves progressively towards a cashless society so the interaction moves towards full unity between user and technology. Context-aware Apps help unit this technological driven movement. As information passes through the context-aware gadget (for example if it’s used to pay for food) then it gathers data on the food types, nutritional values, and sugar intakes. The devices then have the ability to suggest alternatives to ensure the user’s eating the correct balanced diet.

Similarly as the devices gather information on your body type as well as size, as you shop within a large area, potentially the devices will steer you towards shops that it feels would suit your style of dress based on your previous purchases.

As these Apps have a full awareness of a user’s history and personal choices the devices use this awareness to suggest information to help satisfy the user’s current as well as anticipated needs. It indicates a closer integration between the user and technology, so far unseen in modern Apps. However the idea of a gadget directing a user’s life may not appeal to all people. For those wishing to “opt-out” of today’s data driven technology, context-aware Apps presents an ever-decreasing boundary between human free-thought and artificial intelligence. Although context-Apps have yet to ignite the consumer market, as technology advances, so too will the potential of these very powerful Apps.

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