AppleInsider Staff
Apple is rumored to be in acquisition talks with Israeli development company PrimeSense, which created the range camera technology Microsoft used as a base for the Xbox 360's 3D-motion tracking Kinect sensor.
According to Israeli publication Calcalist (via The Next Web), Apple and PrimeSense are in advanced talks for an acquisition reportedly worth $280 million. The company creates sensors, chips and middle-ware for motion-sensing and 3D scanning applications.
Aside from the infrared motion tracking system in the Kinect, technology from PrimeSense is being used in advanced applications like Matterport's 3D scanner, which uses the Israeli firm's sensors to create full-color models of interior spaces. Another case study is iRobot's Ava healthcare robot, which uses PrimeSense sensors to "see," allowing it to navigate and interact with people.
It is unclear what plans Apple has for PrimeSense, but some of the firm's technology could potentially be combined with that of "indoor GPS" firm WiFiSlam, which the Cupertino tech giant purchased in March.
Apple already has a presence in Israel after purchasing flash memory component maker Anobit in 2011 for $400 million. Since then, Apple has expanded operations in the region with research and development centers in Ra'anana and Haifa.
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27 Comments
Balmer just crapped his pants and is heading to Israel.
This would be cool if added to every MacBook. They would become aware of their surroundings and respond accordingly. This could also turn every iOS device into 3D world mapping camera. There are many other uses.
Interesting. Expect to see this influence within 4 years.
A good decision by Apple! It's good whenever Apple uses some of it's huge stockpile of cash and puts it to good use.
Balmer just crapped his pants and is heading to Israel.
Why? Kinect 2.0 is being manufactured by a different company.