Omnipresent Computing

The subject of omnipresence computing does leave me with a feeling of dreaded trepidation and whilst I can foresee how this technology could be used to help, support and be of advantage to the end-user, I fear that this technology will be 'weaponised' and can be used to alter both the social - political / social - economic behaviours of the users and the wider demographic / society.

Firstly, consider the idea of omnipresent devices that are connected to the Internet, as well as connect to other IoT (Internet of Things) devices (such as fridges, cookers and other domestic applications), as well as being able to listen into and identifying products that the device / provider may consider in advertising. Think about how we are all bombarded by advertisements and product placement schemes, personally I would not like for an omnipresent device to monitor and swamp me with a choice of products every time I ran out of a product such as milk (example, the device decided that I am running out of milk. The device checks the Internet for another pint and then states "I see that you need some more milk, do you want me to order another pint? Also I see that 'your favourite supermarket' is also selling Cheddar cheese at a discounted price, do you want me to order some." Or alternatively "I noticed that you mentioned the word bread within your last sentence, do you want me to order a loaf of bread").

Secondly, a topic that seems to be more of a draconian issue, as well as being very appropriate considering the recent issues surrounding political discourse and freedom of speech.

Consider the arguments about the nebulous legal definitions of 'hate speech' and how these vague definitions are being used by various governments / authorities (ie. German and Canadian governments and various UK / local police forces -- Nottingham police forces 'misogyny' laws) to arrest and prosecute individuals.

Also consider the recent successful attempt of Theresa May to create legislation for a 'snoopers charter' (ie. the Communications Data Bill) that would force Internet service providers to monitor, record and provide authorities access to any and all Internet communications accessed and communicated by an individual. These omnipresent devices could monitor and record all communications / speech by that individual, which then would be uploaded to the device providers server infrastructure, this data could then be subjected to rigorously analysation techniques provided by law enforcement authorities which could provide an incentive for that authority to prosecute the individual (This brings to mind the two-way TV systems that where portrayed within George Orwell's novel: 1984).

I feel that, if this technology is allowed to progress and is marketed to consumers, we could see a situation that would force individuals and wider society into complying with 'politically correct' dogma. As well as furthering the coarse of left-wing, socialist political and 'identity politics' ideology / arguments.

References & Other Resources:
* Original YouTube Video
* Technology and Open Source Blog