Following the announcement of the Kinect for Windows SDK a few weeks ago, Microsoft has announced changes to the Kinect hardware to optimize it for use with PCs. The basic changes include a small dongle to “improve coexistence with other USB peripherals” and a shortening of the USB cable. Microsoft has also updated the Kinect's firmware to add a “Near Mode”. The new mode will allow the depth camera to see objects as close as 50 cm in front of the Kinect without losing any accuracy.
Accidentally deleting a spreadsheet has never been more intuitive!
Microsoft reiterated its commitment to the new Kinect for Windows commercial program, which provides ongoing support for licensed business users, and revealed the new Kinect Accelerator project run by Microsoft BizSpark.
“The Kinect Accelerator will give 10 tech-oriented companies using Kinect (on either Windows or Xbox360) an investment of $20,000 each, plus a number of other great perks. Applications are being accepted now through January 25th, 2012. At the end of the program, each company will have an opportunity to present at an Investor Demo Day to angel investors, venture capitalists, Microsoft executives (including me), media and industry influentials,” wrote Kinect for Windows GM Craig Eisler.
It'll be interesting to see how Microsoft pushes the Kinect to new horizons.
