Microsoft turning Xbox One consoles into dev kits this year – report

Microsoft will reportedly turn retail Xbox One hardware into development kits and open up app creation to all developers.

Sources said to be familiar with Microsoft’s plans have tipped The Verge that the company will detail its strategy in April – during its upcoming developer-focused Build conference.

The report adds that Microsoft is planning to expand Xbox One app development, which is currently limited to select developers. According to sources, an SDK preview scheduled for May could allow all devs to begin work on apps as early as this summer.

The news aligns with Microsoft’s statements at its recent Windows 10 event, including word that the OS and universal apps were in the works for Xbox One.