Towards investigating the social dimensions of using locative media within the urban context

Locative media are systems of technologically mediated interpersonal and group communication. Such mobile wireless technologies provide the opportunity to augment traditional urban environments with information and communication spatial experiences, which can be accessed through mobile devices. This paper investigates the social implications of using locative media. It considers various relevant theoretical perspectives and attempts to synthesise aspects of them in order to outline a theoretical framework that may inform the design and implementation of such systems. This framework functions as the theoretical basis on which the LOCUNET project builds on. A short description of the LOCUNET system design and the scenario, which will be implemented for the purpose of evaluating its theoretical approach, are also presented.