And we get even closer to reality:
 

 Microsoft has confirmed to MCV that Kinect will not boast any voice control functionality at launch.

Speaking at Gamescom, marketing manager for Xbox Live EMEA Robin Burrowes stated that “we will be announcing when voice control will be turned on in due course”.

Earlier demonstrations of Kinect had depicted users switching between various functions and selecting media on Xbox 360 by simply telling the console what it was they wanted it to do. The peripheral will also be able to recognise the voices of individual users.

Earlier this month the platform holder touted such functionality as one of the key reasons why hardcore gamers will be keen to be amongst the first owners of the device.

Kinect will launch in the UK on November 10th.

UPDATE: MCV can also confirm that chat software Video Kinect will also not feature as part of the accessory's launch. Like voice control, that will also arrive at a later date.

Price point higher than expected.
Features lower than expected.
Sounds like a real winning combination.

Are you kidding me? Chances are it will be defective too.

Expected this to happen.
Pretty words, lots of promises, nothing to eventually work with.
 
Bah.

I don't like that this whole internet business makes companies think it's alright to release a product that they believe is not yet fully functional.

Just to clarify, it sounds like this is dashboard voice control only. But still - c'mon - they should have their new dashboard ready day and date. They are rushing to get this thing out to market now.

For what was supposed to be a revolutionary product, it has really been continually deflated.

Rumour has it the 3DS is launching without 3D. 
I at least appreciate that the Kinect is getting worse before its even launched. That takes talent.

This thing is doomed.

they should just cancel the whole thing i don't know anybody who actually wants to buy the Kinect... played back in June and i certainly was not sold on it....