Kinect for Windows Targets Developers, Costs More than Xbox Kinect

Microsoft has announced that it will be launching a Windows-specific version of its Kinect motion-sensing device on February 1st, along with a Software Development Kit that will allow developers and bedroom coders to stimulate new experiences on the PC platform. But it's likely to be more expensive than its Xbox 360 counterpart.

Craig Eisler, General Manager for the Kinect for Windows initiative, said that the reason "why [Kinect for Windows] isn't the same price as Kinect for Xbox" boils down to return on investment. People buying Kinect for Windows aren't likely to be padding Microsoft's wallets further by purchasing Xbox Live subscriptions and other such services, you see.

That, and Microsoft isn't charging a license fee for Windows developers wanting to jump on board with Kinect. Eisler also notes that the Xbox 360 version was specifically tailored for the console experience, while Kinect for Windows will include additional functionality such as a "near mode."

"The ability to sell Kinect for Xbox 360 at its current price point is in a large part based on a consumer buying a number of Kinect games, subscribing to Xbox LIVE and other transactions associated with the Xbox 360 ecosystem," Eisler said.

"With Kinect for Windows, we are investing in creating a platform that is optimised for scenarios beyond the living room, and delivering new features on an ongoing basis... We have chosen a hardware-only business model for Kinect for Windows, which means that we will not be charging for the SDK or the runtime; these will be available free to developers and end-users respectively."

Microsoft has revealed a $249 price point for Kinect for Windows. The Xbox 360 version has an RRP of $149.99.