14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft has just detailed the different privacy policies and settings of its Xbox One next-gen console and its Kinect.
The company confirms that, while the device can't be disconnected entirely, it can be paused and won't listen or upload any data.
Microsoft revealed a variety of new details about its Xbox One console yesterday, and among them was info about the privacy policies and how the new and improved Kinect can be employed by users.
Ever since Microsoft mentioned that the Xbox One's Kinect would constantly listen for the “Xbox on” command, privacy advocates have been raising red flags about the new console.
Microsoft has now emphasized that it will respect the privacy of the Xbox One users and that they can even pause or turn off the device.
Check out all of the details shared by Microsoft on its website below.
• You are in control of what Kinect can see and hear: By design, you will determine how responsive and personalized your Xbox One is to you and your family during setup. The system will navigate you through key privacy options, like automatic or manual sign in, privacy settings, and clear notifications about how data is used. When Xbox One is on and you’re simply having a conversation in your living room, your conversation is not being recorded or uploaded.
• You are in control of when Kinect sensing is On, Off or Paused: If you don’t want the Kinect sensor on while playing games or enjoying your entertainment, you can pause Kinect. To turn off your Xbox One, just say “Xbox Off.” When the system is off, it’s only listening for the single voice command -- “Xbox On,” and you can even turn that feature off too. Some apps and games may require Kinect functionality to operate, so you’ll need to turn it back on for these experiences.
• You are in control of your personal data: You can play games or enjoy applications that use data, such as videos, photos, facial expressions, heart rate and more, but this data will not leave your Xbox One without your explicit permission.
• You can use other inputs to control your games, TV and entertainment experiences: While it’s faster to find what you’re looking for using your voice and gesture commands with Kinect, you can use a controller, your remote controls or your smart devices instead. And you can use all of these devices when Kinect is paused.
Plenty of new Xbox One and Kinect details will be shared at E3 2013 next week.