We have previously heard a rumor that Microsoft is working on a new version of the Microsoft Kinect, which is expected to launch some time in early 2012, and there will be a version for the Xbox and also a separate version for the PC.
Now according to a recent report by Eurogamer, who have been talking to a number of developers, the Kinect 2 will be so accurate that it will be capable of lip reading.
One development source told Eurogamer that Kinect 2 will be so powerful it will enable games to lip read, detect when players are angry, and determine in which direction they are facing.
Kinect 2 can track the pitch and volume of player voices and facial characteristics to measure different emotional state.
Enhanced Capabilities of Kinect 2
The advancements in Kinect 2 are expected to bring a significant leap in the way users interact with their gaming consoles and PCs. The ability to lip read is just one of the many features that will set Kinect 2 apart from its predecessor. This feature will allow for more immersive and interactive gaming experiences, where characters in the game can respond to the player’s spoken commands and even understand their emotional state.
For example, if a player is frustrated or angry, the game could adapt by offering hints or adjusting the difficulty level. This level of interaction could also extend beyond gaming, potentially being used in applications such as virtual meetings, where the system could gauge the emotional tone of participants and provide feedback or adjustments accordingly.
Potential Applications Beyond Gaming
While the primary focus of Kinect 2 is on enhancing the gaming experience, its advanced capabilities open up a plethora of possibilities in other fields. In the realm of education, Kinect 2 could be used to create more engaging and interactive learning environments. Teachers could use the device to monitor students’ engagement and emotional responses, allowing for real-time adjustments to teaching methods.
In healthcare, Kinect 2 could be utilized for physical therapy and rehabilitation. The device’s ability to track precise movements and detect emotional states could help therapists tailor exercises to the patient’s needs and monitor their progress more effectively. Additionally, the technology could be used in mental health applications, where it could help therapists understand and respond to patients’ emotional cues during remote sessions.
We don’t as yet have any details on when Microsoft will launch their second generation Kinect, although we suspect it will probably be at the same time as they launch the new Xbox console, but this has been rumored to launch in 2013.
Source Dvice
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