Microsoft details data collection, sharing policies in updated Xbox privacy statement

Microsoft has released an updated version of its Xbox privacy statement, detailing its user information-sharing policies as the company gears up to launch the Xbox One.

Microsoft specifically outlines how the console's Kinect camera collects data during gameplay, possibly in response to targeted advertising concerns raised recently. "You control what happens to photographs taken during gameplay and whether voice commands are captured for analysis," Microsoft explains. "You can turn Kinect off at any time."

The updated policy also assures that Kinect's detailed facial recognition data will not be transmitted to outside sources, and will be deleted after each gameplay session. "Some game titles may take advantage of a new Xbox capability called expressions," the statement reads. "This feature allows you to use your defined facial expressions to control or influence a game. This data does not identify you, stays on the console and is destroyed once your session ends."

Xbox Live's terms of use were updated earlier this week, explicitly stating how Microsoft's consoles will share user information going forward.