Presence, Location, Existence

Google in 2005 filed a patent application regarding "a computer-implemented method of providing text entry assistance data, comprising: receiving at a system location information associated with a user; receiving at the system information indicative of predictive textual outcomes; generating dictionary data using the location information; and providing the dictionary data to a remote device." The concept might be looked at as a location-based communications service. It is more, we'd argue.

"Presence," the ability of a computer system to detect your present willingness and ability to communicate. "Location-based" services promise to tie your present location to your lifestyle and preferences. Google's patent goes slightly further. It would make possible not only location-variable messaging and communications, but time of day or day of week personalization as well. The system theoretically could alter the results of any active or passive "search" function based on your past history, time of day, day of week and actual location.

And, of course, it makes most sense for some sort of mobile device. "Presence" solves many problems related to the effectiveness and efficiency of communications. "Location-aware" features may help solve some additional problems (I'm hungry or thirsty. Where can I get something to eat?). Google's system could theoretically contextualize even one's life experience (If you hurry, you can catch an earlier flight; those size 4 pink Crocs you wanted for the granddaughter are for sale, or maybe even on sale, at the store one block ahead. You will want to ship them home and there's a FedEx Kinkos another block ahead).