AfterDawn: News

Microsoft acquires 3D chip maker Canesta

Microsoft has confirmed that it is purchasing Canesta, a small 3D chip making company that specializes in gesture-recognition tech.

Canesta is best known for chips that, when coupled with digital cameras, give many devices a 3D effect, and a sense of depth perception (as pictured).



The Redmond giant did not disclose how much it paid for the chip maker.

Notably, the 3D tech used in the newly-launched Kinect motion control system was created by Canesta's rival PrimeSense.

"I'm excited to be way out in front and want to push the pedal on that," added CEO Steve Ballmer, when he was asked about company plans to advance gesture technology outside of just Kinect.

Analysts speculate Microsoft will use the Canesta tech to begin equipping PCs, HDTVs and Windows Phone 7 devices with gesture-recognition tech.

Written by: Andre Yoskowitz @ 4 Nov 2010 0:30

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• 5 comments

• ivymike

  This just smacks of antitrust if you ask me. Where is the damn SEC when you need 'em?!?

  4.11.2010 02:32 #1

• Mysttic

  Quote:Where is the damn SEC when you need 'em?!? On a coffee break.

  4.11.2010 09:55 #2

• drhanaba

  Originally posted by ivymike: This just smacks of antitrust if you ask me. Where is the damn SEC when you need 'em?!?
  
  They don't handle antitrust, so they are not needed here. Hope they are tending their "real" crooks
  

  4.11.2010 11:27 #3

• KillerBug

  Then where is the FTC when you need them? Oh yeah...they are on that same 10-year coffee break.
  

  5.11.2010 00:10 #4

• drhanaba

  Please see my post above. The SEC does not handle antitrust. They handles frauds and irregularities with securities, which are stock, bonds, and such. The U.S. Justice Department handles antitrust items. Just thought you would like to know!
  

  5.11.2010 00:37 #5