
Kinect downgraded
Kinect won’t be reading sign language
The Microsoft device is been reportedly downgraded to save money which means the Kinect version that’s shipping this holiday won’t be able to recognise your fingers.
Microsoft has reportedly reduce costs of making the motion-sensing device by downgrading Kinect’s capabilities. This means Kinect will no longer include the processor chip that enabled it to recognise the joints of the fingers and toes, at least this is what Kotaku reports.
Kinect was originally capable of doing so because of its higher resolution but now Kinect’s resolution will be lowered to 320×240. This is what Microsoft told Kotaku:
It turns out the camera on Kinect has been pared down to 320x240 in order to cut costs.
Such a low resolution would not be able to track the complex movements needed for sign language. Kinect can only track limbs, not digits.
“We are excited about the potential of Kinect and its potential to impact gaming and entertainment. Microsoft files lots of patent applications to protect our intellectual property, not all of which are brought to market right away. Kinect that is shipping this holiday will not support sign language.