Microsoft has said that each and every Xbox One will come bundled with the new Kinect. Although it is not needed for the Xbox One to power on, the Kinect is a major component of the whole Xbox One entity. Microsoft clearly is revolving their new system around this sophisticated sensor.
My question is what happens if the Kinect sensor actually breaks or fails?
For example, what if people are still playing Wii bowling and have an unfortunate Wii Remote accident; we have all seen these disasters on YouTube. Or, maybe the sensor just falls off the TV while moving stuff around and it shatters. It could happen. And more importantly, it will happen.
How is Microsoft planning on handling this situation? They have not yet commented on this issue.
Will the new Kinect be sold separately as a just-in-case? Or will consumers be forced to buy a whole new Xbox One system package? If so, how much will the new Kinect sensor sell for by itself? The assumption would be $100 given the $100 price difference between XBox and the PS4, but you never know. Also, when (or if) will these stand along Kinects be available?
Will consumers get screwed if their Xbox One Kinect accidentally breaks or fails?
While we wait for Microsoft’s answer, let’s perhaps look at a potential bigger issue – the 3 red lights.
Given the fact that the red ring of death cost Microsoft millions and millions of dollars to correct, it is probably a safe assumption they did their homework and built a more stable system. However, Microsoft, as well as Sony, have been coy when it comes to the warranty of their new systems. Will it be a 1-year? 3-year? And what exactly is covered? Is the Kinect apart of this warranty? Will I be given a box to ship my broken unit back if it fails? How long would that take? And will users still be able to use their Xbox to full capacity if the Kinect is in repair?
These are burning questions for any new generation system and can make Day 1 buyers a little nervous.