Definitions and Images of Pervasive Computing

 Pervasive Computing - Pervasive computing (also called ubiquitous computing) is the growing trend towards embedding microprocessors in everyday objects so they can communicate information.  The words pervasive and ubiquitous mean "existing everywhere." Pervasive computing devices are completely connected and constantly available.  http://searchnetworking.techtarget.com/definition/pervasive-computing

Pervasive Computing - Also called ubiquitous computing, pervasive computing is the result of computer technology advancing at exponential speeds -- a trend toward all man-made and some natural products having hardware and software.
http://www.webopedia.com/TERM/P/pervasive_computing.html

The advertisement on the right scans retinas and communicates with said person, telling them to buy their product. (Minority Report)

Ubiquitous Computing - Ubiquitous computing (ubicomp) is a post-desktop model of human-computer interaction in which information processing has been thoroughly integrated into everyday objects and activities. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ubiquitous_computing

Ubiquitous Computing - Ubiquitous computing, or calm technology, is a paradigm shift where technology becomes virtually invisible in our lives. http://www.cc.gatech.edu/classes/cs6751_97_fall/projects/say-cheese/marcia/mfinal.html

Ambient Computing - The ambient user-experience is encalming. People prefer getting information through simple dedicated displays rather than all-in-one convergence devices. When information is presented in a glanceable, ambient form we don’t feel overwhelmed and over-saturated—even if we own dozens of connected devices. http://en.oreilly.com/et2008/public/schedule/detail/1339

Ambient Computing - Ambient computing is concerned with issues of interface design and interaction arising from ubiquitous computing (Ubicomp) environments. http://www.infoq.com/news/2010/07/ambient-ubiquitous-computing

Disappearing Computing -I was unable to find a definition or line of text to sum up the term 'disappearing computing' so I will attempt to write my own. Disappearing computing is simply the idea of  integrating multiple technologies into one device without severely changing the aesthetic of the device and its primary function. For example if we take a stereo system its only function is to output sound, but if we install a wireless device allowing it to connect to the television and a tablet or visual interface. That stereo system now becomes a media where the user can download or stream music, pictures or video files. The device will more or less look the same but have more capabilities.

Analysis of Definitions
Similarities and differences in pervasive computing -

• The first obvious similarity between the two definitions is that they both refer pervasive computing to also being called ubiquitous computing.
• The seconed is everyday objects containing microprocessors or software and hardware.
• The only difference is that the first definition refers to communicating information, being completely connected and constantly available. So not al ot of difference.

Similarities and differences in ubiquitous computing -

• The difference between definitions is that one talks about post desktop and the integration of technology into our everyday lives and the other talks about technology being integrated into our everyday lives to the point where it becomes invisible.

Similarities and differences in ambient computing -

• One definition is talking about interface design for ubiquitous computing and the other talks about presenting information and uploading information in a simplistic form.

Similarities and differences between pervasive, ubiquitous, ambient and disappearing computing -

• Similarities include technology being integrated into everyday objects, not necessarily being visible and the fact it will be everywhere.
• There aren't really any differences between these terms, they are more or less have the same core principle (integration of technology into everyday life) but branch off to different areas such as making technology work in the background to our everyday lives or combining multiple technologies into single mobile devices.

An important point to make regarding the image from the Minority Report is that pervasive computing is not just a user looking through a device or their devices communicating with other devices but also a device in the world directly communicating with the user.