Apple buys Kinect-makers PrimeSense for rumoured $360 million fee

Apple has acquired the makers of Microsoft's Kinect sensor PrimeSense for a reported $360 million sum.

The deal was reported by the AllThingsD. Citing unnamed sources, the site stated rumoured prices of $360 million.

Apple spokeswoman Kristin Hugue responded to the site by stating, "Apple buys smaller technology companies from time to time, and we generally do not discuss our purpose or plans.”

Speaking with the BBC, Frost & Allen consultant Nitin Bhat commented on the acquisition, and said, "Usage of gesture-based, touch-less control of devices is one of the big mega trends in the industry right now.

"From Apple's perspective it looks like an attempt to make its current gadgets a lot more attractive by offering such a feature on them. It could also look to incorporate this technology in future portfolio of devices which could include an Apple TV."

An Israeli company, PrimeSense was responsible for the 3D motion control technology integral to the original Kinect sensor. Microsoft now uses its own tech in the Xbox One build.

How do you think this technology could be used within Apple products? Let us know what you think below.

Via GI.biz.