Microsoft have announced that the Kinect v2 for Windows is available for pre-order. It will be release on July 15 for $199 USD and will be distinguishable from the Xbox One version as it will be without Xbox logo and also costs around $100 more.
Microsoft have this to say about the unit.
The Kinect for Windows v2 sensor gives developers more of the precision, responsiveness, and intuitive capabilities they need to develop interactive voice- and gesture-based applications for the Windows desktop and Windows Store. The v2 sensor is intended for use with the Kinect for Windows software development kit (SDK) 2.0. Learn more at the Kinect for Windows Dev Center.
Is this something that could be useful for Windows applications? Microsoft seem to think so. According to www.gamesindustry.biz Phil Spencer, head of Xbox said "Consumers love the device; they love the experience. They'll buy it. They'll either buy it at launch when they buy their console, or they'll be able to buy it after the $399 console; they'll pick it up and add it on later. And we'll continue to make sure that experience is great."
Being the head of Xbox he kind of has to say this but time will tell and with the added focus on VR technology recently he could very well be right.
What do you think? Is it worth the price tag or is it just a creepy paper weight?
Source: www.microsoftstore.com
