Originally pegged for a May 27 release, Microsoft's official statement on the release of Avatar Kinect simply states that the new technology/social program (for up to eight people at a time) will be out "later this Spring". [Microsoft Press Release]
Microsoft plans to release an Xbox Live update beginning in less than two weeks, according to Joystiq. The update will add support for Microsoft's new disc format and add Paypal as a payment option for Xbox Live. Meanwhile, Microsoft will also be launching Avatar Kinect on May 27th as a separate download. [Joystiq]
Microsoft's upcoming "Avatar Kinect" was pitched as a glorified chatroom. It didn't sound that exciting. This real-time demonstration, though, at least makes it look remotely interesting.
At CES 2011, Microsoft unveiled Avatar Kinect, a new Xbox 360 app that uses the Kinect camera to track your facial expressions for a personalized, glorified chatroom. Just what does Avatar Kinect see? More than you might think.
The silent man contorts his face in expressions of agony and humor. A fine web of digital lines traces every movement. He grimaces, he smiles, his eyes go wide, his mouth gapes open in a silent scream.
We've been wondering what Avatar Kinect is. Now we know. It's a way to use Microsoft's Xbox 360 Kinect sensor to slip us into a Matrix of avatars hanging out together in the virtual world.
