News: Microsoft to release Kinect SDK

Microsoft has announced plans to release a Windows software development kit (SDK) for its Kinect motion controller.

The kit will make it possible for third-party developers to create new software for Kinect, with the motion sensor plugged directly into a Windows PC this time, and not just an Xbox 360.

The noncommercial “starter version” SDK will allow users access to core Kinect system properties such as audio, system application-programming interfaces and a larger degree of control over the Kinect sensor. A commercial version is also planned for release at a later date.

“Microsoft's investments in natural user interfaces are vital to our long-term vision of creating computers that are intuitive to use and able to do far more for us,” said Craig Mundie, chief research and strategy officer at Microsoft.

Soon after the release last November of the Kinect peripheral for Xbox 360, a number of hacks appeared showcasing the true potentials of full body motion sensing. And while Microsoft reacted strongly at first, the company quickly changed its stance and welcomed the creativity of the hackers.

CEO Steve Ballmer also said in his keynote at CES earlier this year that PC support for Kinect would be officially supported by Microsoft.

It remains unclear as to when exactly the SDK will be available to the public, but we can't wait to see some of the remarkable software that is sure to be born from its release. Minority Report, here we come.

Microsoft to release Kinect SDK

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