Mobile Computing for M-Commerce

Abstract

The ubiquitous nature of modern mobile computing has made “any information, any device, any network, anytime, anywhere” a well-known reality. Traditionally, mobile devices are smaller, and data transfer rates are much lower. However, mobile and wireless networks are becoming faster in terms of transfer rates, while mobile devices are becoming smaller, more compact, less power consuming, and, most importantly, user-friendly. As more new applications and services become available every day, the number of mobile device owners and users is increasing exponentially. Furthermore, content is targeted to user needs and preferences by making use of personal and location data. The user profile and location information is becoming increasingly a necessity. The aim of this article is to present an overview of key mobile computing concepts, in particular, those of relevance to m-commerce. The following sections discuss the challenges of mobile computing and present issues on m-commerce. Finally, this article concludes with a discussion of future trends.