More Human Ambiance in Ambient Computing

Explore a thought-provoking SXSW 2021 conference talk that challenges the conventional approach to ambient computing. Delve into five provocations on designing ambient technology to subtly enhance human interactions, shifting the focus from 'all-encompassing' to 'creating a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere'. Examine the desirability of ambient computing beyond feasibility and viability, questioning whether people truly desire a world filled with flashing screens and holograms. Learn how to bring warmth and seamlessness to technological experiences, addressing challenges in the smart device industry, and discover ways to let technology facilitate familiar activities in new environments. Gain insights on creating more human-centric ambient computing solutions that prioritize user experience and natural interactions.

What's the worst restaurant experience you've ever had?
My job is to bring the warmth and seamlessness of human interactions to our technological experiences.
Challenges to the future of ambient computing
Get a little smarter about what smart technology we're building
Right now, the smart device industry is noisy.
Our toys don't want to play nicely together.
The joy of the same old things in new and different places
Sometimes it seems like the industry is trying to build the digital equivalent of an overly-eager concierge in an anonymous chain hotel.
Let the technology subtly facilitate the same old things in new environments
Smart people steering smart devices