Developing apps for Xbox One?

Question

I've heard that Xbox One application development is quite similar to Windows 8, but I haven't found much to suggest why, or what differences there are.

Is there any documentation about creating Xbox One applications (not games, apps.. like Netflix, etc), or even how to apply to obtain such information?

Answer 1

I've been trying to find more details myself. It sounds like the ability to develop apps is coming:

http://arstechnica.com/gaming/2013/10/wait-can-the-xbox-one-really-run-generalized-windows-8-apps/

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 [to] go build Windows 8 applications.

There are some additions in WinRT designed to allow interaction with Kinect:

http://www.oxm.co.uk/59024/features/what-its-actually-like-to-develop-for-xbox-one-microsoft-explains/?page=2

The applications are very similar to Windows 8, like we brought a lot of the Windows 8 namespace - WinRT can be used for building those applications, the time it takes to port a Windows 8 application to the new Xbox? It's super, super easy. There's some things we added to the platform for handling gestures, for handling voice and handling ten foot UI paradigms.

Right now it appears the most you can do is try out your app ideas in WinRT and wait until an Xbox One SDK appears.

Answer 2

I've worked on a few of the launch apps for Xbox One. Unfortunately, you cannot get an app on the platform unless you've been invited (at this point in time), however rumour has it that MS may open up the platform a bit more in the next year or two.

All documentation and information regarding the development itself is all under strict NDA, so it's highly unlikely that you'll find any in depth details.

If you're interested, you can always try contacting the Xbox team for more information.