Technology Assessment
and Planning

Proactive Computing

With the proliferation of computers in everyday devices, the ratio of computers to human users is increasing to such a degree that it is impossible for the current human-computer interaction mode to scale. The amount of manual intervention required by the user, the necessity of consciously overseeing and responding to computing tasks becomes prohibitive.

Proactive computing is an approach to computing that focuses on large numbers of embedded computers self-orchestrating and acting on behalf of users. User needs are anticipated, tasks and services are performed and delivered proactively, obviating the need for conscious directing of activity. Devices will initiate helpful behaviors and automate away detail, leaving humans and computers to function as partners with shared goals.

• Overview of Research at Intel