Microsoft Kinect
Microsoft Kinect is a line of motion sensing input devices developed by Microsoft for use with the Xbox 360 and later the Xbox One video game consoles, as well as for personal computers. Here is a detailed overview:
History
- Development: The Kinect project began under the codename "Project Natal" in 2007, with the aim to revolutionize gaming interaction by removing the need for physical controllers.
- Release: The first Kinect was released for the Xbox 360 in November 2010. It quickly became one of the fastest-selling consumer electronics devices, with over 8 million units sold within the first 60 days.
- Xbox One Integration: In 2013, Microsoft released the Xbox One, which included a Kinect 2.0 as standard, although later versions of the console were sold without it due to cost and privacy concerns.
Features and Capabilities
- Motion Tracking: Kinect uses an infrared projector, camera, and a specialized chip to track the movement of objects and users in three dimensions.
- Voice Recognition: With advanced microphones, Kinect can recognize voice commands, allowing users to control their console or PC through speech.
- Facial Recognition: The device can recognize individual users, allowing for personalized gaming experiences.
- Skeletal Tracking: It can track up to six people simultaneously, with full skeletal tracking for two users, enabling interactive gameplay.
- Applications Beyond Gaming: Kinect has been used for various non-gaming applications, including fitness, education, healthcare, robotics, and even in interactive art installations.
Impact and Legacy
- Market Impact: Kinect introduced a new way of interaction in gaming, influencing the industry to explore more natural user interfaces.
- Open Source Movement: Microsoft released an open-source software development kit (SDK) for Kinect, leading to numerous community-driven projects and applications.
- Discontinuation: In October 2017, Microsoft announced the end of Kinect sensor production for Xbox, though the technology continues to be used in research and other fields.
External Links
See Also