The Disappearing Computer: Interaction Design, System Infrastructures and Applications for Smart Environments

This book examines how the computer, as we currently know it, will be replaced by a new generation of technologies, moving computing off the desktop and ultimately integrating it with real world objects and everyday environments. It provides a unique combination of concepts, methods and prototypes of ubiquitous and pervasive computing reflecting the current interest in smart environments and ambient intelligence.

From the reviews:

"The main topic of this book, has been successfully carried out in a variety of settings and activities, such as work environments, health, home, and leisure, to support human collaboration and cooperation. ... The targeted audience is HCI and computer science (CS) specialists who are involved in ubicomp research. Moreover, the book may be useful in HCI, computer-supported collaborative work (CSCW), information technology (IT), and related courses for teaching case studies and the state of the art of ubiquitous computing." (Miguel Garcia Ruiz, Computing Reviews, Vol. 50 (1), January, 2009)