Concepts That Go Against the Technological Tide in Social, Mobile and Ubiquitous Computing

3 concepts that go against the current technological tide in social, mobile and ubiquitous computing:

Technology as a wall
Instead of always thinking of technology as a matchmaker between strangers it is often used as a healthy wall to isolate us from the unknown and the uncontrolled noise (people listening to their iPod in the subway). Technology can make us aware of the surroundings, without acting as communication interface. A very relevant project in that category is Familiar Strangers.

Sporadic connectivity planning
While technology providers suggest that there are not limits to connectivity and mobility, service coverage and stability is anything but seamless and free of charge in the real world. Very little is done to help users plan their in and off times. However it is a known concept in the third world in areas where connectivity is either impossible or to expensive. DakNet in India is an example.

Unubiquitous mode
To prevent and help manage frequent distraction and the possible misuse of technology (privacy issue), ubiquitous environments should provide an unubiquitous mode. Effects of Pervasive Computing on Sustainable Development is a good read that explains the social and psychological impacts of ubicomp.