Thousands of developers are participating in Kinect for Windows v2 Developer Preview—starting today
In addition to being a great day for Xbox One, today is also a great day for Kinect for Windows. We have started delivering Kinect for Windows v2 Developer Preview kits to program participants. The Developer Preview includes a pre-release Kinect for Windows v2 sensor, access to the new generation Kinect for Windows software development kit (SDK), as well as ongoing updates and access to private program forums. Participants will also receive a Kinect for Windows v2 sensor when they become available next summer (northern hemisphere).
Microsoft is committed to making the Kinect for Windows sensor and SDK available early to qualifying developers and designers so they can prepare to have their new-generation applications ready in time for general availability next summer. We continue to see a groundswell for Kinect for Windows. We received thousands of applications for this program and selected participants based on the applicants’ expertise, passion, and the raw creativity of their ideas. We are impressed by the caliber of the applications we received and look forward to seeing the innovative NUI experiences our Developer Preview customers will create.
The new Kinect for Windows v2 sensor will feature the core capabilities of the new Kinect for Xbox One sensor. With the first version of Kinect for Xbox 360, developers and businesses saw the potential to apply the technology beyond gaming—in many different computing environments. Microsoft believes that the opportunities for revolutionizing computing experiences will be even greater with this new sensor. The benefits will raise the bar and accelerate the development of NUI applications across multiple industries, from retail and manufacturing to healthcare, education, communications, and more:
Real Vision
Kinect Real Vision technology dramatically expands its field of view for greater line of sight. An all-new active IR camera enables it to see in the dark. And by using advanced three-dimensional geometry, it can even tell if you’re standing off balance.
Real Motion
Kinect Real Motion technology tracks even the slightest gestures. So a simple squeeze of your hand results in precise control over an application, whether you’re standing up or sitting down.
Real Voice
Kinect Real Voice technology focuses on the sounds that matter. Thanks to an all-new multi-microphone array, the advanced noise isolation capability lets the sensor know who to listen to, even in a crowded space.
2014 will be exciting, to say the least. We will keep you updated as the Developer Preview program evolves and we get closer to the Kinect for Windows v2 worldwide launch next summer. Additionally, follow the progress of the early adopter community by keeping an eye on them (#k4wdev) and by following us (@kinectwindows).
The Kinect for Windows Team
Key links