Video:Overview of Microsoft Kinect

Transcript:Overview of Microsoft Kinect

Hey I'm Bob with About.com, and today we are going to talk about Microsoft Kinect.

Kinect Add-On Xbox

Kinect is an add-on device for Xbox 360 and some home computers that allows users to control their system with natural body movements and voice commands.  Unlike similar gaming systems, the Kinect was the first completely hands-free device and was the fastest selling electronics device ever following its launch in 2010.  

Body Movements Control Kinect

Using an infrared sensor along with video capabilities, the Kinect creates a 3D landscape that it tracks throughout usage. With this, it can turn two players' body movements into game play simultaneously, recognize up to six people at a time, and notice and adjust for new players moving into the space.  Additionally, built in microphones, allows operation through a series of verbal commands.

When preparing to play, you’ll want to set the device several feet off the ground and stand 6 – 11 feet from the center of the device.  Playing begins when a user waves their hand at Kinect’s camera or says “Xbox Kinect”, activating the device.  Kinect’s facial recognition software will identify the player and bring up the appropriate avatar.

Xbox 360 Games for Kinect

Xbox 360 Games designed specifically for the Kinect come in a purple case and are labeled with a sticker that states 'requires Kinect Sensor,' games that have optional Kinect abilities in addition to standard controller play feature the text 'better with Kinect Sensor.'  Game play differs from game to game, with tutorials that cover how to interact with each new game.

It’s worth noting that Kinect isn’t limited to game play.  It can be used to video-chat and  play movies, television and music.  Additionally software developers have used the Kinect to create live animation, augmented reality, and 3D video capture.

Thanks for watching.  For more information, please see About.com