Is it possible to turn off the XBox One Kinect?

Solution 1:

If the Kinect is disconnected from the XBox One, is the console still usable? (Does unplugging the Kinect render the console inoperable?)

• No, your Xbox One will still function properly (just without the features the kinect uses (voice commands, facial recognition, etc)). I set mine up initially without the kinect connected. You will just see a symbal in the top right corner of your screen saying that your kinect is disconnected.

Is it possible to turn off of disable the Kinect, or is it always on when it's connected.

• You can disable features of the kinect without unplugging it.

A buddy of mine says that some sports games assess in game penalties if the Kinect hears swear words. Is he pulling my leg, or is this a real thing?

• Yes, but not necessarily all games as that is up to the game developer / game settings. Source & video of this.

Solution 2:

If it's disconnected the console will still work (any games that rely on it of course will not.)

Microsoft had initially made it mandatory but relented in August.

Yes, in FIFA 13 and 14 at least, swearing will get you carded.