The New Azure Kinect DK Unlocks New Potential for Real-Time Designs

The interactive design community was buzzing after the announcement in February 2019 of the new Azure Kinect DK. The next-generation Kinect promises greater motion tracking accuracy with interactive design in mind. The timing of the new Kinect couldn't have been better, 2020 has seen a surge in commercial clients seeking bespoke interactive installations, and Microsoft has tailored the Azure to meet this demand. The Azure Kinect DK will likely become a firm favorite for designers looking to create both interactive and VR experiences.

Real-time visual creation tool Notch has prepared for the release, developing a new patch update to meet the needs of their interactive community. The Azure Kinect DK is a developer kit with advanced AI sensors for building sophisticated computer vision and speech models. Designed for versatility, it combines an advanced depth sensor and a spatial microphone array with a video camera and orientation sensor.

The combination of the Azure and Notch offers the opportunity of boundless creativity. Both hardware and software are designed for versatility and with the creative in mind. Microsoft's new Azure Kinect DK sensor will be available for purchase in Japan, Germany, and the United Kingdom starting this March. The Azure has previously only been available for purchase in the US.

Matt Swoboda, the founder of Notch, said: "The Notch user base has been implementing Kinect Cameras into their interactive workflow since day one. The new Azure Kinect DK looks to be a significant advance in technology, and we are as excited as our user base about it's potential. We've seen a huge uptake in interactive designs, and this new technology will certainly drive innovation and invention within this design space."

"Our user base has incredible ingenuity, and I am looking forward to seeing the ideas that emerge from this powerful combination. With the right hardware and software, all you need is imagination."

Notch Builder is available for Windows as a free trial and starts at £99/month for a full subscription. Visit the URL below for more information.