Project Natal not using 3DV… They are actually using PrimeSense

This came out of left field, for the past couple of months we were convinced that the technology behind Project Natal was being supplied by the Israeli firm 3DV but apparently it’s not.

In a joint press statement from Microsoft and a company called PrimeSense it was revealed that PrimeSense is in fact providing the technology behind Project Natal.

This may explain why Sony passed up on 3DV and why they haven’t been overly concerned about Project Natal.. because they didn’t actually know what it was going to be. Check the full press release after the break or click here for the video

PRIMESENSE™ SUPPLIES 3D-SENSING TECHNOLOGY TO “PROJECT NATAL” FOR XBOX 360

Ground-Breaking Optical Sensing and Recognition Technologies to Aid Gesture Control Platform

LONDON – 31 March 2010 – ‘Microsoft Corp. (Nasdaq “MSFT”) and PrimeSenseâ„¢, the leader in 3D sensing and recognition technologies, announced today that PrimeSense will be providing its leading-edge 3D-sensing technology for use in “Project Natal” for Xbox 360.

“We’ve seen tremendous excitement and anticipation for the arrival of ‘Project Natal’ this year,” said Ian Spillinger, Vice President of Xbox 360 hardware. “PrimeSense has delivered an important component to the technology, helping us deliver revolutionary controller-free entertainment experiences in the living room.”

“PrimeSense’s technology enables a paradigm shift in the way people interact with consumer electronic devices. The engagement with Xbox 360 establishes PrimeSense’s position as a leading supplier of 3D-sensing technology,” said Inon Beracha, Chief Executive Officer, PrimeSense. “We are especially honoured to have a partner like Microsoft who share our vision for bringing innovative and engaging natural experiences to consumers.”

“Xbox 360 Hardware Engineering teams developed the ‘Project Natal’ sensor based on the PrimeSensorâ„¢ reference design to support the special requirements of ‘Project Natal,’” said Aviad Maizels, president and founder, PrimeSense.

Microsoft recently announced at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas that “Project Natal” will be available during Christmas 2010.

-Ends-

Last Updated: April 1, 2010