Towards chipification: the multifunctional body art of the Net Generation

This paper considers the trajectory of the microchip within the context of converging disciplines to predict the realm of likely possibilities in the shortterm future of the technology. After presenting the evolutionary development from first generation to fourth generation wearable computing, a case study on medical breakthroughs using implantable devices is presented. The findings of the paper suggest that before too long, implantable devices will become commonplace for everyday humancentric applications. The paradigm shift is exemplified in the use of microchips, from their original purpose in identifying humans and objects to its ultimate trajectory with multifunctional capabilities buried within the body.