Theories for the global ubiquitous computer

Abstract

This paper describes an initiative to provide theories that can underlie the development of the Global Ubiquitous Computer, the network of ubiquitous computing devices that will pervade the civilisedworld in the course of the next few decades.We define the goals of the initiative and the criteria for judging whether they are achieved; we then propose a strategy for the exercise. It must combine a bottom-up development of theories in directions that are currently pursued with success, together with a top-down approach in the form of collaborative projects relating these theories to engineered systems that exist or are imminent.