You've probably heard the terms mobile computing, ubiquitous computing and pervasive computing. Are they the same or different? There are a few subtle differences.
Mobile computing is a generic term used to refer to the use of computing devices, which can be transported during normal usage, that allows people to access data and information from anywhere at any time. It involves the use of mobile communication, mobile hardware and mobile software. It was mobile computing that started the paradigm of 'anytime, anywhere' access to data and services.
Pervasive computing is the growing trend towards embedding microprocessors in every day object so that they can communicate information. Pervasive computing devices are completely connected and constantly available. It relies on the convergence of wireless technologies, advanced electronics and the Internet. Pervasive implies a technology that exists everywhere, with computing systems that are totally connected and consistently available.
Ubiquitous computing is a term coined by Mark Weiser to define a technology that "enhances computer use by making many computers available throughout the physical environment, while making them effectively invisible to the user". Ubiquitous computing can occur using any device, in any location, in any format. Weiser's idealistic view includes making it so intuitive to use that users don't require any skills to use computers and are not even aware that they're using one.
Often, the term 'pervasive computing' and 'ubiquitous computing' are used interchangeably. All three make use of wireless and wired communication infrastructure.
