How close are we to a vision for 2010?

2 days ago

The EU's IST advisory group envisioned 'Ambient Intelligence' 25 years ago, predicting pervasive, well-integrated computing.
Scenario 1 ('Maria') highlights personalized devices, digital ID, and smart traffic systems—some realized, others not.
Scenario 2 ('Dimitrios') imagines embedded digital avatars ('D-Me')—still far from reality despite advances in AI and vocal cloning.
Scenario 3 ('Carmen') explores ride-sharing, smart fridges, and micro-payments—partially realized but with privacy concerns.
Scenario 4 ('Annette and Solomon') envisions ambient-assisted learning and telepresence—some elements exist, but integration is lacking.
Key technological requirements include unobtrusive hardware, seamless communication, distributed networks, humane interfaces, and security.
Many 2010 predictions (GPS, ride-sharing, video calls) are now reality, but others (public payphones, AI avatars) remain unrealized.
Open standards and public investment are crucial for achieving these visions, but private sector focus on short-term gains hinders progress.

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