The book “being digital” gives a valid insight about the fundamental changes taking place arround the world, as technology becomes more a part of our lives. In addition, in this book, Negroponte acknowledges and predicts the main evolutions that will take place with interfaces and the cultural changes that will occur as a consequence of that evolution. Even though the book was published in 1995, and technology has been changing so fast, its content is still up to date.
The Internet has and will continue to enable a shift from atoms to bits. This notion that Negroponte introduces in his book is noticeable and known by most people. In fact, the recent past has shown us this reality, with the music industry being a prime example. This unstoppable shift from atoms to bits, fueled by the speed at which the Internet is growing worldwide and the infant age at which children take contact with PC’s, will produce a generational “cultural divide”.
One point I found particularly interesting was Negroponte’s view on the interface and particularly on the interaction between people and computers. Regarding this matter, it seems to be a challenge to develop computers that “… know your needs, and understand verbal and non-verbal languages”. For me, not having specific know-how in the subject, it is hard to believe that this scenario is possible in the near future. Nevertheless, it’s the author’s conviction that computer science will now focus more in creating “intelligent machines”.
On-demand digital life is another commonly accepted concept that Negroponte explores very well in this book. This reality will enable people to receive information according to their preferences of subject, time and media, enabling anyone to filter the information they want to get. The notion of having computing machines do that work for you is also fascinating.
From a telecommunications point of view, I found great insight in the book about fiber and its advantages as a means to transmit data. Specifically, I was surprised by the speed at which fiber can deliver data.
Finally, the notion of “wearable media”, smart appliances and intelligent cars is emphasized by Negroponte in this book with great imagination, leaving me with the sensation that all the machines described will actually be developed and available to the common citizen.