Report: Microsoft in talks to buy 3D gesture-recognition company |
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Report: Microsoft in talks to buy 3D gesture-recognition company
Image: 3DV Systems
According to an unconfirmed report, Microsoft is negotiating to buy 3DV Systems, an Israeli startup whose cameras recognize gestures for controlling video games, among other applications. The talks were reported today by Haaretz.com, which didn't cite a source.
The reported purchase price is $35 million, less than the sum of the financing 3DV has received. The most obvious use for the technology, according to the story, would be in conjunction with Microsoft's Xbox 360. Describing potential gaming scenarios on its Web site, 3DV goes so far as to imply that its technology is even better than Nintendo's Wii controller.
In 3DV Systems, we have taken a state-of-the-art next generation 3d imaging technology, originally used in advanced defense systems, and transformed it into an affordable consumer device that will revolutionize the way gaming is experienced. For the first time ever, you can use your body freely to control games, no wearables required, no limitations attached. Move your hand, leg, head or finger, in any direction and setting, moving quickly or making fine, minor movement - all these gestures are easily detected and understood by the system, creating a unique personalized and immersive gaming experience. This experience is complemented by the ability to combine your own 3D image inside the game scene, in real-time.
I've checked to see if Microsoft is commenting on the report, and I'll update this post depending on the response. See Techmeme for more coverage.
About Todd Bishop
Todd Bishop is co-founder and managing editor of TechFlash. He has covered Microsoft and the technology industry for more than five years, most recently as a daily newspaper reporter and blogger based in Seattle.
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