Microsoft Denies Rumors Of A Kinect-less Xbox One Bundle

It’s been a little bit quiet in the gaming industry as we leave Comic-Con and aim towards the dog days of summer. That’s why it was of great elation when I heard, via Inside Gaming Daily, that their anonymous source confirmed that Microsoft was planning a Kinect-less and cheaper Xbox One bundle for the summer of 2014. It sounded like the smartest decision the company could make, as there are a considerable amount of people who would otherwise be interested in the console are not a fan of the always-on Kinect camera. Something about a device that can hear you, read your heartbeat and muscle movements was frightening, apparently.

Unfortunately, Gamefront received a statement from Microsoft denying the reports. Here was their response:

"We have no plans to introduce an Xbox One without Kinect. We believe in Kinect and the value it brings to both games and entertainment, and believe $499 is a great value for what consumers receive with their Xbox One."

So, there you have it. Microsoft has jumped back and forth on their messaging before, but they want to keep the dialogue straight going forward, especially in regards to the Xbox One’s Kinect capabilities. They are strong believers in its advantages, some of which rely heavily on the Kinect’s microphone and camera hardware.

As well, it should be of note that the PS3 and Xbox 360 are about level in their overall sales despite the PS3’s $599 price tag when it launched a year later than the Xbox 360 and its $399 price tag. Price might not be a deciding factor for the Xbox One or its sales figures, but perhaps the decision of keeping the Kinect might. We’ll be on the lookout for more Kinect-related news as it progresses.