Revealed: the final chip spec for Natal

The final edition of Microsoft’s Project Natal control prototype features technology based on an all-encompassing system-on-a-chip.

And Microsoft says that the newly-revealed component will help the company “deliver revolutionary controller-free entertainment”.

Natal’s tech is now thought to be a modified version of the PS1080 chip – built by Israeli company PrimeSense and featuring a “multi-sense system” offering synchronised depth image, colour image and audio stream.

PrimeSense company president Aviad Maizels says that the “Xbox 360 Hardware Engineering teams developed the Natal sensor based on the PrimeSensor reference design.”

The technical specifications of Natal have always been a moving target, with Microsoft making constant adjustments to the device throughout its development.

Now, with a mere six months to go before Natal’s launch, the platform holder must fully finalise its design to aid its development partners and manufacturing firms.

Last year Microsoft purchased a stake of camera technology group 3DV in what is thought to be a $7m deal, giving Natal advanced camera technology.

However, Natal’s dual-chip system was recently cut in half after what was said to be concerns over memory and processing usage.

PrimeSense today confirmed that its 3D-sensing technology will remain in Project Natal.

“We’ve seen tremendous excitement and anticipation for the arrival of ‘Project Natal’ this holiday,” said Ilan Spillinger, vice president of Xbox 360 hardware.

“PrimeSense has delivered an important component to the technology, helping us deliver revolutionary controller-free entertainment experiences in the living room,” he added.