Microsoft kills the Kinect as production shuts down

Microsoft has been quietly winding down Kinect support for years, but it looks like the device has now officially been laid to rest. 

Speaking to Co.Design, the console maker confirmed it has shut down production of the super-smart motion controller, and won't be manufacturing any more once retailers have shifted their remaining stock. 

The first generation Kinect was introduced way back in 2010 in an attempt to broaden the Xbox 360's audience and capabilities, while a new iteration was launched alongside the Xbox One in 2013. 

That improved version of the device was initially bundled with Xbox One hardware, however, the following year Microsoft released a cheaper Kinect-free bundle in an attempt to woo consumers. 

According to Co.Design, both versions of the Kinect have sold a combined 35 million units since launching seven years ago. 

Although the Kinect's time is finally up, the device will live on in various forms. The iPhone X's much talked about 'notch,' for instance, is being powered by very same tech, while Kinect developer Alex Kipman is currently heading up Microsoft's mixed-reality HoloLens project.