Kinect for Windows v2 sensor now available for pre-order for developers

Microsoft today announced that developers can pre-order the Kinect for Windows v2 sensor. Developers who pre-order will be able to start building solutions ahead of general public. This will also enable the developers to start creating Windows Store apps for the Kinect. The new hardware will be priced at $199 and will be first-come first-serve basis as the hardware is available only in limited quantity.

Sensors which are purchased within the given time will be shipped in July, at which Windows also plans to release the beta version of the software development kit. All of this will happen before the hardware and software is made available to the general public, giving the pre-order customers a head start in using the v2 sensors new improved features.

The v2 sensor features an increased depth-sensing capability with full 1080p video, improved skeletal tracking and enhanced infrared technology. Many developers were unable to participate in the Developer preview program conducted before; hence this makes the perfect opportunity for them to try out the Kinect for Windows v2. The early adopters in the last six months using this technology have developed designs, prototypes and apps that range from finger tracking to touch free controls for assembly line workers to tools for monitoring the environment.

At BUILD, kinect has already been used to showcase some of the mind boggling technology that the hardware and software have been used to build like Reflexion Health and Freak’n Genius.