Microsoft: Kinect price only an estimate

One day after a price was “announced” on the Microsoft online store for its new motion-controller Kinect, the company added an explainer and appeared to soften on the cost.

Microsoft never announced a price during the E3 last week, but shortly after its press conference, the online game store GameSpot had the Kinect listed for pre-order at $149.99.

That page was quickly pulled, and Microsoft insisted that a final price for the new controller had not been determined.

On Tuesday, a price for the gaming system, which has no handheld controller and uses a camera to read the player’s movements, was posted on Microsoft’s online store.

The price? $149.99.

But on Wednesday, the Kinect order form had been changed to make clear that the official price has still not been determined.

“Official pricing has not been announced.  $149.99 is an estimate only and subject to change,” the site reads.  “Quantities may be limited. Orders will be fulfilled on a first in first served basis.”

A Microsoft representative did not return a message from CNN.com seeking to verify the price or find out how many pre-orders had been placed at the $149.99 price.

The order form also includes details about the hardware players will need to have to use the Kinect.

The controller is compatible with the Xbox 360, and Microsoft suggests 6 feet of space between the player and the television. This distance will vary according to sensor placement and other factors.

To connect with friends and family for game play or video chat, an Xbox Live Gold membership also is required.

A power cable, manual and Wi-Fi extension cable are included with the Kinect. The order form said the package will be available for shipping on or after November 4.