May 1, 2009 - Last month at GDC 2009, we saw the first glimpse of alternative control solutions for the Xbox 360 with PDP's motion controller, the GameTrak Freedom, but now new reports suggest that Microsoft could be toying with controllerless motion sensor technology for the platform.

According to Engadget, who claims to have received a tip from someone close to the project, Microsoft is currently in the process of creating a sensor bar-like device which detects physical movement of players for in-game control. The sensor is said to include a microphone, camera, along with various other sensors, and will have the ability to detect full body movement and the slightest of hand gestures, such as pinching. Other rumored functions of the device will be video conferencing with in-game integration, and on-screen object control via motion.

While the source of the rumor seems highly suspect, this isn't the first time speculation about motion sensing control on the Xbox 360 has been discussed. If you recall, back in February rumors began to circulate regarding Microsoft's acquisition of 3DV Systems, a company which specializes in gesture-based motion sensing technology. Although no formal announcement of the acquisition was made, reports have suggested that Microsoft successfully purchased controlling stake in the company for $35 million.

There seems to be plenty of evidence to support the concept, but we will have to see how this story shapes up over the next few months. If the project is as far along in the development cycle as today's report would suggest, we'd put money on Microsoft shooting for a fall 2009 release for the motion sensor add-on. 

article by Scott Lowe