6 million and is threatened by the PS3 Sony 35

Located on Wilshire Boulevard, historic artery connecting the city to the Pacific Ocean, the Wiltern Theatre is one of the largest theatres in Los Angeles. And yet, it was not enough to allow 3,500 journalists from around the world to attend the official launch of Kinect, new Microsoft gaming device. In a lively atmosphere, demos of games and music in full volume, the designer of the Xbox 360 sought out the great game, Monday, pre-open the Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3), world show in the video game reference.

So far called "Natal", Kinect was expected a year by all the "gamers". Because it should return the video game in a new era claim the player of its throttle with a system based on movement detection. If the price of this new device has not been disclosed - rumours are 150 euros-, the date of marketing was set for November 4 in the United States. France, it will be available before the end of November, specific to the "Echos" Francois Ruault, Director of the consumer division of Microsoft France.

A concentrate of technology

If it presents itself as a simple box connecting on the Xbox, Kinect is a concentrate of technology: thanks to an integrated camera and an infrared sensor, it detects all the movements of the player, provided that it is placed within 4 metres. You can then play without throttle, just with his body. Kinect is also equipped with an advanced system of voice detection, which allows the player to the game remotely. "We propose a new experience of the video game, which announces unlimited opportunities for players," said Don Mattrick, senior Vice President of the public branch of Microsoft.

All characteristics that could enable Microsoft to reach new audiences of players and thus democratise its XBox 360. 15 Available on Kinect launching games are indicative. Games for children - Kinectanimals-, sports - football, bowling, Javelin, table tennis, boxing and volleyball-, but also fitness or dance... For good show that the device is for all, Microsoft has also ensured to appeal to many women representatives in its presentations. Similarly, the group is working closely with large distribution channels to broadcast the Kinect massively. In France, the group is already under discussion advanced with Leclerc and Auchan.

Face to the customer Wii

While Microsoft consumer division has just see his historical boss Robbie Bach, resign as late may, the arrival of Kinect must give boost to its video game business. Launched in 2005, the Xbox 360 has already sold more than 40 million copies worldwide, but far behind Nintendo's Wii (71.6 million) and is threatened by the PS3 Sony (35.2 million units), later marketed. To stay in the race, Microsoft must give a new attraction to the console. Yesterday, he thus announced the marketing of a new version of the Xbox, finer than the current shipping a 250 GB hard drive and Wi - Fi connectivity. Available as early as this week in the United States at a price of $ 299, it should arrive in France this summer.

Remains that the success of Kinect is not played in advance. Microsoft will need not only to do with the overall Wii, but also to the Sony's PS3 Move, which was to be unveiled Tuesday at E3. To differentiate, Kinect wants to go further than its competitors, by offering the user to other applications that only video games. Via Xbox Live, Kinect will consult its videos, read music or even video chat without remote control, activating applications with his hands, either with his voice. Welcome to the future...