Microsoft’s motion sensor, Kinect, finally makes it’s way to the PC along with the release of the supporting SDK.
Microsoft’s motion sensor, Kinect, finally makes it’s way to the PC along with the release of the supporting SDK.
Kinect for Windows now joins it’s sibling, Kinect for Xbox 360 on the market. The motion sensor allows you to use your body as a controller and since it’s release for the console, many have tried making the device compatible with the PC, the struggle is no more. Along with the Kinect device, Microsoft has announced the release of supporting SDK which can be downloaded here.
There are however some downsides to jumping onto this technology right away, while there is promise of revolutionising interface between man and machine for all purposes, from business meetings to gaming, the item ships with no software and is only compatible with applications specifically developed for Kinect. It doesn’t end there either, Kinect for Windows RRP is $249, $100 more than the console version however justification for this is that the sensor is different, allowing a ‘near mode’ which means the sensor can focus from just 40cm, other reasoning includes that the Kinect for the Xbox 360 is subsidised in cost through the sale of compatible games.
Kinect will not be the only sensor of this type to be released for the PC, since conception on the console there has been other technology companies looking to bring the benefits of the motion sensor to PC users so expect stiff competition in 2012.
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