The Coming Age of Calm Technology The article discusses the evolution of technology and its relationship with humans. It highlights three major phases: the mainframe era, the PC era, and the current era of ubiquitous computing driven by the Internet and distributed computing. The mainframe era involved shared, scarce computing resources, while the PC era introduced personal computing, where individuals had direct, intimate relationships with their computers. Today, the Internet is leading us towards ubiquitous computing, where computation is deeply embedded in the world. This shift requires a new approach to technology design, known as "calm technology," which aims to integrate technology seamlessly into daily life without overwhelming users. The mainframe era was characterized by computers that were mostly used by experts behind closed doors. These systems were shared resources, requiring negotiation and sharing among users. Today, shared office PCs and large-scale simulations still reflect this mainframe computing model. The PC era began in 1984 when the number of personal computer users surpassed those using shared computers. Personal computers are intimate, personal tools that individuals interact with directly and deeply. They are often compared to automobiles, which are special, expensive items that require attention to operate. The Internet and distributed computing are now leading us towards a new era of ubiquitous computing. This era requires a new approach to technology design that is calm and unobtrusive, fitting seamlessly into daily life. The article emphasizes the need for a new design philosophy that considers both the center and the periphery of our perception and the world.The Coming Age of Calm Technology The article discusses the evolution of technology and its relationship with humans. It highlights three major phases: the mainframe era, the PC era, and the current era of ubiquitous computing driven by the Internet and distributed computing. The mainframe era involved shared, scarce computing resources, while the PC era introduced personal computing, where individuals had direct, intimate relationships with their computers. Today, the Internet is leading us towards ubiquitous computing, where computation is deeply embedded in the world. This shift requires a new approach to technology design, known as "calm technology," which aims to integrate technology seamlessly into daily life without overwhelming users. The mainframe era was characterized by computers that were mostly used by experts behind closed doors. These systems were shared resources, requiring negotiation and sharing among users. Today, shared office PCs and large-scale simulations still reflect this mainframe computing model. The PC era began in 1984 when the number of personal computer users surpassed those using shared computers. Personal computers are intimate, personal tools that individuals interact with directly and deeply. They are often compared to automobiles, which are special, expensive items that require attention to operate. The Internet and distributed computing are now leading us towards a new era of ubiquitous computing. This era requires a new approach to technology design that is calm and unobtrusive, fitting seamlessly into daily life. The article emphasizes the need for a new design philosophy that considers both the center and the periphery of our perception and the world.