The Decline and Demise of Kinect: Why Microsoft Pulled the Plug
Microsoft has officially discontinue its motion-sensing input device, Kinect. This decision, based on a variety of factors, marks a significant turning point in the gaming industry, as we explore the reasons behind such a sweeping change.
Limited Adoption
Despite initial fanfare, Kinect did not achieve widespread adoption outside of specific gaming titles. Many developers faced significant challenges in creating compelling games and applications that effectively utilized the device's capabilities. This limited engagement highlights the need for more intuitive and user-friendly interfaces to be successful in the market.
Shift in Focus
Microsoft shifted its focus towards more traditional gaming and hardware experiences, especially with the launch of the Xbox One. Recognizing that not all gamers were interested in motion controls, the company decided to pivot towards more conventional gaming interfaces. This meant allocating resources towards projects that had a clearer path to success and profitability.
Technological Advances
As technology evolved, newer and more versatile input methods such as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) emerged. These alternatives often offer more engaging and immersive experiences compared to Kinect. The rapid advancements in these areas further contributed to the decision to discontinue the device.
Resource Allocation
Moving away from Kinect allowed Microsoft to reallocate resources towards other projects with higher growth potential. Strategic shifts in resource allocation are crucial for a company aiming to remain competitive and innovative.
Market Demand
Ultimately, consumer demand for Kinect-like experiences diminished over time. Although marketed as a revolutionary device, the novelty of its features wore off. Gamers increasingly preferred traditional controllers, further reducing the demand for Kinect.
While the Xbox One version of Kinect saw improvements in the camera tracking system, it continued to be more of a gimmick for many users. For example, I primarily used my Kinect to control simple functions on the Xbox, such as pausing a show, toggling power, launching games, and managing user accounts.
Another issue arose with Fifa 18, where I had to disable Kinect integration due to frequent unwanted emails during manager mode. The device would incorrectly pick up my kids shouting in another room, disrupting gameplay and causing frustration.
In summary, the combination of limited market success, a shift in focus towards more conventional gaming experiences, evolving technology, and shifting market demand led to the ultimate decision to discontinue Kinect. As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, companies must remain agile and innovative to stay ahead of the curve.