Always Connected. Always Available.
I don't fly that often. Maybe once a year to visit home. I usually pick a super early flight and just sleep the entire way. No problem. That's why I was initially confused when I read a headline that the government may soon allow Wi-Fi connected phone calls on flights. Why would you need to make a call on an airplane? I've used Wi-Fi on a plane, but never lamented that I can't make a call while in the air. I ride the bus nearly every day, and it's very annoying when someone is on the phone. Someone is always on the phone.
After reading the story, the reason became obvious. It's for work. If you can use a phone in the air, you will never miss a call. Many airlines (and customers) have spoken out against the proposal. However, the existence of the proposal shows what direction we may be headed in terms of connectivity and availability.
Connected Conference Calls on the Go
I read today about Volvo adding Skype, specifically Skype for business, to their 90-series. View your meeting schedule and join a conference call with the push of a button. The most noteworthy part of this story is that it shows the direction we are headed in terms of availability and transportation. Perhaps eventually we can watch a video conference while riding to work in a completely autonomous car. This seems like a plausible, if not a distant, future.
Is there such a thing as being too connected? I suppose we will see where the limit is.
