Kinect firm makes PC motion controller

Kinect creators PrimeSense Immersive Natural Interaction has revealed a new Kinect-like motion camera for the PC.

Called the WAVI Xtion, much like Kinect it will allow users to control an array of core functionality through gesture and voice, with the express intention of "extending PC usage to the living room".

Specifically mentioned are social networking, multimedia and gesture-based games.

Our agreement with ASUS for developing WAVI Xtion demonstrates that Natural Interaction technology is already mainstream,” PrimeSense CEO Inon Beracha said in a press release, which notably doesn’t once mention Kinect.

This user interface is a new paradigm that represents how all CE products will eventually be naturally controlled and operated.”

Asus general manager Kent Chien added: Asus combines its wireless cross-room solution with PrimeSense’s simple, intuitive, gesture-based control technology to allow users to enjoy and share PC content on TV with gestures. WAVI Xtion is the unprecedented living room experience that will revolutionise users’ recreational lives.

"Natural Interaction’s appeal to consumers means more monetization opportunities based on personalisation, various branding and advertising programs inside applications.”

The WAVI Xtion is scheduled to begin a phased launch in Q2 2011.