Xbox One devs can get a "head start" with Windows 8
Microsoft hints that Windows 8 apps may run on the Xbox One
At the Build 2013 conference last week, Microsoft vice president of developer and platform evangelism Steve Guggenheimer (pictured) hinted that those interested in Xbox One development can look at creating apps for Windows 8. Guggenheimer showed off a simple web application running on the Xbox One while at the event.
"Xbox One has two engines, it's got a gaming engine and it essentially has a Windows 8 engine," said Guggenheimer, according to a report by The Verge. "Nothing to announce today, but when I talk about that common core you're seeing that common core in action, being able to target other devices over time that run the Windows 8 engine. If you want to know about how to get a head start about thinking about developing for Xbox One, the logical thing to do is go build Windows 8 applications."
This was the barest of hints about Windows 8 apps running on the Xbox One. There was no clarification on where independently-developed apps would end up on the Xbox One, or if they would still have to pass certification. Hopefully, Microsoft will have more details in the near future.
While perusing it, I noticed that lots of the Main Menu doodads try to link off to Xbox services, relating to games, watching movies, etc.
Really, it's just an ongoing integration that's been happening since they announced the "Games for Windows" system, or whatever it was, that shared your achievements and stuff between Xbox and Windows.
Few years ago developers complained that they had to use Macs in order to develop for iOS. Yet, that hasn't stopped anyone, since the incentive was so big.
Now, if MS allows to develop and distribute freely on XONE (with retail unit being a devkit) people will be downloading Win8 at no time.
On a side note: why is feature rumoured only now? It should have been announced and implemented months ago. I don't think that MS will be able to prepare this for launch.
Edited 1 times. Last edit by Igor M on 2nd July 2013 11:07pm
Btw, I use Windows 8 Pro, (now 8.1) on a non touch machine (touch is even better) and working on it for months making my games on it. Performs faster, interacts faster feels fresh, and offers a lot of convenience! It is a much better and modern windows experience hands down! VS 2012 is awesome too!
Combine that with Unity and Microsoft striking a deal to eliminate the entry cost for Unity Xbox One development which is awesome too! Many small shops are already very happy!
Some people develop for iOS without touching a Mac. There are ways to do it, and even nicely integrated into .NET. If the Mac really was a requirement for developing for iOS, I'm not convinced I would have gone there.
Back on topic... so the XBone actually is just a PC with a different interface bolted on. Not unexpected after they said it would have the same kernel as windows 8 I guess!