Lenovo to tackle Microsoft with rival 'Kinect' console
- — 02 September, 2010 17:02
'Ebox' concept design
Chinese PC vendor Lenovo has announced plans to challenge Microsoft, Sony and Nintendo with a motion sensing peripheral of its own. The 'Ebox' is a new gaming device that enables users to interact with games without using a controller -- just like Microsoft Kinect.
The device utilises a motion-sensing webcam and can be used in conjunction with a TV (see pic).
(Image: China Daily)
The technology will be released through a spin-off firm, Beijing eedoo Technology Ltd.
Jack Luo, president of Beijing eedoo Technology, told China Daily that Lenovo hopes to rival the big three console manufacturers; Microsoft, Nintendo and Sony, with its new product.
"I expect more than 1 million Eboxes may be sold annually after the first two to three years," Luo told the newspaper.
The Ebox is being targeted at Chinese consumers primarily, with an emphasis on casual gaming. "Ebox may not have exquisite game graphics, or extensive violence, but it can inspire family members to get off the couch and get some exercise," Luo told China Dailiy. Sixteen global video game developers have allegedly signed contracts with Beijing eedoo, although no specific companies have been announced.
The Ebox is expected to ship in the first quarter of 2011. Pricing has yet to be announced, but will allegedly fall somewhere between the Nintendo Wii and Xbox 360.
