Microsoft have detailed in a blog post today that a new Windows Kinect device is on the way. Having played with the Kinect SDK for Windows the new device could address the biggest problem I had with it which was short range use. If you were sat a desk the Kinect sensor was useless and couldn’t really be used in a desktop application. The new Kinect for Windows will have new firmware which with work as close as 40cm in “close up” mode, this should open up a lot more possibilities. Also there would be a shorter USB cable and a small dongle “to improve coexistence with other USB peripherals”, not sure exactly what that means. The new hardware will probably ship when the Commercial Kinect SDK is released next year, maybe we will see a preview at CES.
Simple changes include shortening the USB cable to ensure reliability across a broad range of computers and the inclusion of a small dongle to improve coexistence with other USB peripherals. Of particular interest to developers will be the new firmware which enables the depth camera to see objects as close as 50 centimeters in front of the device without losing accuracy or precision, with graceful degradation down to 40 centimeters. “Near Mode” will enable a whole new class of “close up” applications, beyond the living room scenarios for Kinect for Xbox 360. This is one of the most requested features from the many developers and companies participating in our Kinect for Windows pilot program and folks commenting on our forums, and we’re pleased to deliver this, and more, at launch.
One thought on “New Kinect for Windows PCs on the way”
I’m still confused by the point of this. I accept there may be more useful applications to come but the current tv advert of the woman shouting “Xbox, Play Rango” or whatever it is is just laughable. Its much, much easier and a thousand times more accurate to pick up the remote and do it by hand. Plus stops any pesky kids from putting their rubbish on!!
I’m far from a luddite but i expect to see useful implementation of technology, not just gimmicks. and don’t get me started on 3D tv……
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I’m still confused by the point of this. I accept there may be more useful applications to come but the current tv advert of the woman shouting “Xbox, Play Rango” or whatever it is is just laughable. Its much, much easier and a thousand times more accurate to pick up the remote and do it by hand. Plus stops any pesky kids from putting their rubbish on!!
I’m far from a luddite but i expect to see useful implementation of technology, not just gimmicks. and don’t get me started on 3D tv……