A model for contextual data sharing in smartphone applications
International Journal of Pervasive Computing and Communications
ISSN: 1742-7371
Article publication date: 5 September 2016
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to introduce a model for identifying, storing and sharing contextual information across smartphone apps that uses the native device services. The authors present the idea of using user input and interaction within an app as contextual information, and how each app can identify and store contextual information.
Design/methodology/approach
Contexts are modeled as hierarchical objects that can be stored and shared by applications using native mechanisms. A proof-of-concept implementation of the model for the Android platform demonstrates contexts modelled as hierarchical objects stored and shared by applications using native mechanisms.
Findings
The model was found to be practically viable by implemented sample apps that share context and through a performance analysis of the system.
Practical implications
The contextual data-sharing model enables the creation of smart apps and services without being tied to any vendor’s cloud services.
Originality/value
This paper introduces a new approach for sharing context in smartphone applications that does not require cloud services.
Keywords
Citation
Pandit, H.J. and O’Riordan, A. (2016), "A model for contextual data sharing in smartphone applications", International Journal of Pervasive Computing and Communications, Vol. 12 No. 3, pp. 310-331. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJPCC-06-2016-0030
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2016, Emerald Group Publishing Limited