Kinect for Windows SDK beta refresh now available to download

By Tom Warren, on 3rd Aug 11 10:02 am with 6 Comments

Kinect plugged into a Windows 7 PC

Microsoft issued an updated Kinect for Windows SDK Beta this week.

The beta refresh includes a number of bug fixes and stability improvements for developers wishing to create Windows applications that take advantage of Kinect. “In support of our commitment to encourage researchers and enthusiasts in their exploration of the exciting possibilities of the Kinect sensor, we have now released a refreshed version of the SDK,” revealed Microsoft’s Tony Hey in a blog post on Tuesday. The refresh includes the following:

  • Driver enhancements: stability fixes to prevent crashes, including those that appear when a PC goes into sleep mode
  • Runtime enhancements: refinements to a number of APIs, improvements in time-stamping, and the removal of non-functional APIs to alleviate confusion (they will be reinserted if and when the functionality becomes available in future releases)

Microsoft has also updated its documentation and enhanced SDK samples for developers. Microsoft is planning to release a new refresh later this year. “We plan on releasing the next refresh of the Kinect for Windows SDK beta later this year,” said Hey.

Microsoft launched its controller-less console accessory for the Xbox 360 across the world in November. The Kinect sensor is a horizontal bar that sits at the base of your TV. The device has an RGB camera, depth sensor and multi-array microphone which runs proprietary software. Kinect allows for full-body 3D motion capture, facial recognition, and voice recognition. Owners will be able to interact with games titles using just their body. Pausing TV and fast forwarding movies can be achieved using a mix of hand movements and voice control.

Download: Kinect for Windows SDK – 32bit

Download: Kinect for Windows SDK – 64bit

  • http://twitter.com/maciejbesler Maciej Besler

    Is there some Kinect Central where all the development action is taking place?
    Yes, I know how to Google/Bing but most times there’s something obvious that ‘everybody knows about’ that you just miss. ;)

    • appie flappie

      I am sure you can find it on Google. The time you wasted waiting for answer,  you could have found it.

    • http://twitter.com/maciejbesler Maciej Besler

      You know, I can also just go to Codeplex or C9 to find some stuff, or really Google it, but it takes some time to find, for example WinRumors. I’m looking for something like that, delivered socially. I know how to use google, and I’m using it, but still – sharing links won’t kill anyone.

    • Mina

      +100

    • http://twitter.com/finarne Colin Rippey

      http://www.kinecthacks.com is pretty good at bubbling up not only the Kinect SDK but also the OpenNI stuff as well.

    • http://twitter.com/maciejbesler Maciej Besler

      Thanks!