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DEFINITION

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 Ben Lutkevich, Site Editor

 Craig Mathias

Published: May 24, 2022

What is mobile computing?
Mobile computing refers to the set of IT technologies, products, services and operational
strategies and procedures that enable end users to access computation, information and
related resources and capabilities while mobile. Mobile most commonly refers to access
in motion, where the user is not restricted to a given geographic location.

Mobile may also refer to access in a fixed location via equipment that users can relocate
as required but is stationary while in operation. This mode of operation is often called
nomadic computing.

Today, mobile computing technology is everywhere. It has applications in business and

consumer markets, industrial and entertainment industries, as well as many
specialized vertical markets.

Desktop computers offer more hardware configuration capabilities and computational

performance. However, the majority of end users prefer mobile devices. The key
advantage of mobile computing is convenience, where users have access to information
and computational resources anytime and anywhere.
How does mobile computing work?
Generally, a mobile computing system involves a mobile device, such as a laptop
computer, tablet or smartphone, and a wireless network connection based on Wi-Fi or
cellular wireless technology, such as 5G. Mobile devices typically can store data locally,
and access to that data doesn't require a network connection.

Mobile computers typically accommodate access to both wireless and wired technology.
Access to shared network resources, including Mobile cloud-based resources, is
essential given the collaborative nature of work today. Integrated, rechargeable batteries
power mobile devices, and most can run on an alternating current (AC) power source
when used from a fixed location.

In addition to laptops, tablets and smartphones, there are many mobile computing
devices for vertical and specialized applications. These include devices for medical,
surveillance, security, and telemetry and control uses.

Device selection is based on the application. For example, laptops are better suited for
content creation, and tablets are often preferred for content consumption. Smartphones
function as pocket-size computers and communication devices, but they have small
screen sizes and screen-based keyboards.

Why is mobile computing used?

Mobile computing is used in most facets of life both in business and by consumers. It
enables users to be untethered from a power source for periods of time. This is
advantageous for traveling workers who want to stay connected to their work while on
the move. It's also useful for remote workers who may not have all the connectivity and
power options they have in an office setting.

Consumers use mobile computing in several ways, including the following:

 internet access
 mobile communications
 web browsing
 mobile applications
 entertainment streaming media
Mobile devices and apps can collect user data in various environments and contexts.
Fitbits and smartwatches are examples of wearable technology that collect user data in
novel contexts, including fitness and health settings.

Mobile computing also makes the internet of things (IoT) possible. The nontraditional
computers, sensors and other devices that make up IoT are able to connect and
communicate without direct human intervention.

What are the types of mobile computing?

Mobile computing is a combination of infrastructure, hardware and software technology.
The various parts of mobile computing are as follows:

 Mobile infrastructure. Infrastructure refers to the technical pieces that allow

devices to communicate. Mobile infrastructure includes the wireless networks,
wireless protocols and data formats.
 Mobile hardware. The physical mobile device and supporting hardware that
users interact with make up the mobile hardware. This may include cell
phones, laptops, tablets, wearable computers and accompanying chargers
and accessories.
 Mobile software. This refers to the applications that run on mobile devices,
including mobile operating systems (OSes) and user-facing applications, such
as mobile browsers and e-commerce applications.

Some different types of mobile computing include the following examples:

 Consumer use. Consumers can use mobile devices like laptops,

smartphones, wearables and tablets for an array of activities, including
communication, entertainment, banking, bill paying and health and fitness
tracking.
 Remote work. Employees use laptops or tablets to work and collaborate.
Delivery personnel use mobile devices for logistical and management
information, and to verify that deliveries were made to the right place. Field
service technicians use mobile devices for field service management, tracking
and support capabilities.
 IoT. Consumer and enterprise IoT devices are used to communicate with
other devices without human intervention. For example, self-driving cars use
sensors, onboard computers and other connected devices to connect with
GPS, weather and other systems to navigate the road safely. Smart sensors
are also used in supply chain management systems to track the progress of
goods in transit.
  Category

 >Information Technology

Evolution Of Mobile Computing: How Is Mobile

Computing Applied In Real Life?
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 Soumalya Bhattacharyya
 Sep 07, 2023

In today's interconnected world, mobile computing has become

an integral part of our daily lives. The rapid advancements in
technology have given rise to powerful smartphones and
portable devices that have revolutionized the way we
communicate, work, and access information. Mobile computing
refers to the ability to use these devices to perform various tasks
while being on the move, untethered by traditional wired
connections.
The importance of mobile computing has empowered individuals
to stay connected with family, friends, and colleagues through
voice calls, text messages, social media, and instant messaging
applications. Moreover, it has transformed the way we access and
consume information. With just a few taps on our smartphones,
we can browse the internet, read news, watch videos, and even
participate in online courses.
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Mobile computing has also reshaped the business landscape,

enabling professionals to be productive even when they are away
from their desks. With mobile apps and cloud-based services,
employees can access work-related files, collaborate with team
members, and respond to critical tasks in real-time. This flexibility
has improved efficiency and enhanced productivity across
industries.

Mobile computing has facilitated the growth of e-commerce,

allowing consumers to shop online and make secure transactions
through mobile payment systems. It has opened up new avenues
for businesses to reach their target audience and offer
personalized experiences through mobile applications.

Evolution of mobile computing

The evolution of mobile computing has been a remarkable

journey, transforming the way we interact with technology and
shaping our modern digital landscape. Here is a brief overview of
the key milestones in the evolution of mobile computing:
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1. Early Mobile Devices: In the 1980s and 1990s, mobile

computing began with bulky and limited-functionality
devices like handheld calculators, personal digital assistants
(PDAs), and early mobile phones. These devices offered
basic computing capabilities, such as note-taking, calendars,
and simple communication.

2. Rise of Smartphones: The introduction of smartphones in

the late 1990s and early 2000s marked a significant turning
point. Nokia's Communicator series and BlackBerry devices
brought email, messaging, and basic internet browsing to
handheld devices, integrating communication and
productivity features.

3. Mobile Internet and App Stores: The advent of faster

mobile internet technologies, such as 3G and later 4G,
enabled a more immersive browsing experience on
smartphones. Additionally, the introduction of app stores,
most notably Apple's App Store in 2008, revolutionized
mobile computing by providing a platform for developers to
create and distribute a wide range of applications.

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4. Expansion of Mobile Applications: The proliferation of
mobile apps across various categories expanded the
capabilities of smartphones. Users could now access social
media, play games, stream media, navigate with GPS, and
perform countless other tasks through dedicated mobile
applications.

5. Integration of Cloud Computing: Cloud computing

played a vital role in mobile computing by enabling remote
storage, synchronization, and access to data and services.
Mobile devices became seamlessly connected to cloud-
based platforms, allowing users to access files, backup data,
and collaborate across multiple devices.

6. Advancements in Hardware: The continuous

advancements in hardware technology have fueled the
evolution of mobile computing. Smaller and more powerful
processors, increased memory and storage capacities, high-
resolution displays, advanced camera capabilities, and
sensors have enhanced the performance and user
experience of mobile devices.

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7. Mobile Ecosystems and Platforms: The rise of dominant

mobile operating systems, such as iOS and Android, has
shaped the mobile computing landscape. These platforms
offer extensive developer tools, robust security features, and
 a vast ecosystem of apps and services, driving innovation
and user adoption.

8. Internet of Things (IoT) and Wearables: The integration

of mobile computing with IoT has led to the emergence of
connected devices and wearables. From smartwatches and
fitness trackers to smart home devices, these connected
gadgets leverage mobile computing technologies to provide
a seamless and interconnected user experience.

9. 5G and Beyond: The introduction of 5G networks promises

to further revolutionize mobile computing. With faster
speeds, lower latency, and increased capacity, 5G will
enable more immersive experiences, support real-time
applications, and accelerate the adoption of emerging
technologies like augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality
(VR).

Mobile Computing is a technology that allows transmission of data, voice and video via a
computer or any other wireless enabled device without having to be connected to a fixed
physical link. The main concept involves −

 Mobile communication
 Mobile hardware
 Mobile software

Mobile communication
The mobile communication in this case, refers to the infrastructure put in place to ensure that
seamless and reliable communication goes on. These would include devices such as
protocols, services, bandwidth, and portals necessary to facilitate and support the stated
services. The data format is also defined at this stage. This ensures that there is no collision
with other existing systems which offer the same service.
Since the media is unguided/unbounded, the overlaying infrastructure is basically radio wave-
oriented. That is, the signals are carried over the air to intended devices that are capable of
receiving and sending similar kinds of signals.

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Mobile Hardware
Mobile hardware includes mobile devices or device components that receive
or access the service of mobility. They would range from portable laptops,
smartphones, tablet Pc's, Personal Digital Assistants.
These devices will have a receptor medium that is capable of sensing and
receiving signals. These devices are configured to operate in full- duplex,
whereby they are capable of sending and receiving signals at the same time.
They don't have to wait until one device has finished communicating for the
other device to initiate communications.

Above mentioned devices use an existing and established network to operate

on. In most cases, it would be a wireless network.

Mobile software
Mobile software is the actual program that runs on the mobile hardware. It
deals with the characteristics and requirements of mobile applications. This is
the engine of the mobile device. In other terms, it is the operating system of
the appliance. It's the essential component that operates the mobile device.

Since portability is the main factor, this type of computing ensures that users
are not tied or pinned to a single physical location, but are able to operate
from anywhere. It incorporates all aspects of wireless communications.