Kinect not supporting sign language at launch
Microsoft confirms that ASL support in patent won't be in the version of motion-sensing system that goes on sale November.
Hearing-impaired gamers got some welcome news last week, when patent documents revealed that Kinect would recognize American Sign Language . One of the more hilarious patent filings made, the document outlined how a deaf person could "be able to tell the other user that he had been 'PWNED'" through gestures that would be translated into speech at the other end.
If such capabilities sound overly ambitious, it is because they apparently are. Microsoft has confirmed to GameSpot that its motion-sensing system will not support sign language out of the box when it launches on November 4.
In a statement the company said, "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. [The] Kinect [system] that is shipping this holiday will not support sign language."
When it launches, the controller-less, camera-based Kinect will cost $150 in the US and £129.99 in the UK by itself. It will also be available as part of a $300/£249.99 bundle that will include the recently revealed 4GB Xbox 360 and Kinect Adventures minigame compilation.
The Status of Every PlayStation Franchise Call of Duty: Game Pass' Savior? | Spot On EA Sports College Football 25 | Official Gameplay Features Deep Dive Trailer Wuthering Waves - Overleveled Boss Challenge HUNTER×HUNTER NEN×IMPACT - Netero Official Character Gameplay Trailer (Japanese) Killing Floor 3 - Clot Enemy Reveal Trailer HUNTER×HUNTER NEN×IMPACT - Kurapika Official Character Gameplay Trailer (Japanese) HUNTER×HUNTER NEN×IMPACT - Leorio Official Character Gameplay Trailer (Japanese) Silent Hill 2 Remake Extended Gameplay Showcase | Silent Hill Transmission May 2024 PlayStation State Of Play Full Showcase | May 2024 Astro Bot Gameplay Trailer | PlayStation State of Play May 2024 Monster Hunter Wilds Gameplay Trailer | PlayStation State of Play May 2024
Please enter your date of birth to view this video
By clicking 'enter', you agree to GameSpot's
Terms of Use and Privacy Policy
Got a news tip or want to contact us directly? Email news@gamespot.com
Join the conversation