Perceptual computing definition
Perceptual computing allows computers to understand and respond to human inputs like voices, gestures, facial expressions, and touch, making interactions more natural and intuitive. It also helps people with disabilities use technology more easily by giving them alternative ways to interact with various devices. Facial and voice recognition may serve as additional (and relatively secure) authentication methods for online accounts and devices, enhancing their security.
However, perceptual computing requires capturing, storing, and analyzing personal data, which does raise privacy issues. It’s also not extremely accurate for how much it costs and how complex it is to implement, so using perceptual computing elements might not always be a straightforward process.
See also: Biometric authentication, Biometric data, Biometric device, Biometric security
Key technology elements of perceptual computing
- Voice recognition software that understands spoken language and converts it into actions or response, for example Siri, Google Assistant, or Amazon Alexa.
- Gesture-recognition-enabled cameras and sensors that detect hand and body movements to control devices. For example, some screens allow you to swipe your hand across them to change a slide during a presentation.
- Facial recognition cameras analyze facial features to identify people or gauge their emotions. This technology is most commonly used in our smartphones for face ID.
- Touchscreens and haptic feedback systems respond to touch and provide tactile feedback. For example, you may set up your smartphone to slightly vibrate whenever you tap the screen.
