Abstract :
User information and communication resources - such as precise location information and direction, altitude, light, and humidity measurements (via sensors) - are becoming more available in end devices. This increasing range of information can enable context-aware informational services as well as linking digital objects to physical objects a user is observing. Thus, mobile users can obtain relevant information about real-world objects while simultaneously staying in touch with other users. The author describes an open, scalable service architecture in which context-aware service negotiation lets entities establish communication and negotiate services without a third partyʹs assistance and without advance knowledge of either partyʹs features. Context information can help hide data complexity from users until they need to make choices regarding such things as payments or object interactions.