Opposable Thumbs / Gaming & Entertainment

Bill Gates wants Project Natal on Windows one day

Bill Gates wants to see depth cameras not only supported by the next versions …

Microsoft Chairman Bill Gates likes bringing technology to as many people as possible. A computer on every desk? Done (more or less). Now, Project Natal is one of those out-of-this-world technologies that is about to come to the masses (if you count gamers as the masses). 

But Gates is thinking about his one billion Windows PC users and how it would benefit them if Project Natal was part of Windows, according to CNET:


Fans of the mouse and keyboard might not like the sound of this new development but they shouldn't worry. If Windows Touch is any indication, 3D gesture recognition isn't going to replace the keyboard and mouse; it will simply accompany it. With Windows 7, Microsoft is allowing users with touch-enabled computers to interact with the computer using just their fingers, but it's an optional feature that isn't required to use the operating system.

The real test for the technology will come in the form of hardware support: how many PCs will ship with the technology by default so that users have the option to use Windows Touch? Many laptops already have built-in microphones so that voice recognition is a possibility, but will the same happen for touch? Eventually, 3D gesture support will have the same obstacle to overcome: will PC makers include depth cameras on most of their computers so that Windows can take advantage of the built-in technology?

Speaking of Project Natal, the team is currently hiring: Project Natal jobs.

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