The growth of wireless technology and wireless devices has created unprecedented freedom. Information can be accessed almost anywhere and people can communicate with one another in places that were once seen as remote. However, this freedom has both pros and cons. Wireless technology has been blamed for disrupting relationships, creating self-doubt and as a tool for manipulation. Nevertheless, the market for wireless devices, weather they be the ubiquitous mobile phone, PDAs or wireless enabled computers and appliances, continues to grow and evolve with new technology emerging everyday.
In a home environment, wireless technology simplifies many tasks which can ultimately lead to less stress. A wireless network can mean that mundane tasks, such as assignment writing or office work can be completed in more relaxed surroundings. Also, if living in shared accommodation where there is a wireless network available, a program can be used to message house mates. Wireless networking changes the way people can communicate. Some would argue that this only creates relationship problems. Also, using wireless enables appliances such as fridges and washing machines to be used easily and efficiently, that in turn changes the way a household is run. Chores are simplified, yet someone still has to hang out the washing. In the home, wireless technology has proved to be practical and beneficial.
However, on a global scale, where there exists a digital divide, wireless technology has much more impact, both positive and negative. Smith (2000) argues that “… groups of people using these tools will gain new forms of social power…� Therefore, new power groups and counter–power groups could emerge, with disruptive consequences. Society, especially western society, has become reliant on mobile phones and computers for everyday life. Now, with PDAs, office workers can take their unfinished business with them to locations such as the beach. Wireless technology has broken down barriers and has redefined the role of ‘the office’.
The mobile phone is the device that has created the most social change. It has changed the way we communicate and has changed relationships. With almost everyone in the westernised world owning one, or having access to one, anyone can be contacted. This does have its benefits. As Belson (2004) explains, parents, for example can be reassured that they can contact their child with a mobile phone. However, if the child does not answer, parents could start to fear the worst. Similarly, the mobile has been blamed for eroding self-reliance. If a person has trouble making a decision, they can always call someone who could help them.
In an attempt to overcome the digital divide between rich and poor, some companies are trying to construct a wirelessly networked computer that is targeted at people who earn less than $4000 a year. The belief is that even the world’s poorest countries can benefit and become a profitable market for wireless technology (Markoff, 2004).
Back to Applications of wireless technologies
References
Belson, K. 2004. Saved and Enslaved, by the Cell. New York Times (Late Edition), October 10, 2004. (accessed October 19, 2004, from ProQuest Computing database).
Markoff, J. 2004. Trying to Take Technology to the Masses. New York Times (Late Edition), August 16, 2004. (accessed September 3, from Proquest Computing Database)
Smith, M. 2000. Some Social Implications of ubiquitous mobile networks. ACM SIGMOBILE Mobile and Communications Review 4 (2): 25-36.
Katherineedwards 08:58, 27 Oct 2004 (EST)
