Leak of Xbox Software Code Creates Launching Pad for Amateur App Makers

Thanks to an unauthorized release of the Microsoft Xbox One software development kit anyone might soon be able to build a game without gaining corporate approval.  

A hacker group, called H4LT, says it posted the software on Twitter to facilitate "creativity and research... towards homebrew applications" on the console.

It's unknown how the hackers obtained the kit, especially since one has to be cleared by Microsoft—and sign a fairly strict NDA—in order to be given access to the tools, PCMag reports.

A statement  by an unknown H4LT member reads: "Once the SDK is out, people who have knowledge or has in the past reversed files related to the Windows (8) operating system should definitely have a go at reversing some files in there. Why? Well, the Xbox One is practically a stripped Windows 8 device and has introduced a new package format that hasn't had much attention. This format is responsible for updating the console and storing applications (Games are under the category of 'Applications' on the Xbox One) and is a modification of Virtual Hard Disks.”

The leak might make it possible for hobbyists to jailbreak the Xbox One to allow it to run unauthorized apps.

“Bemused by its ill-gotten gains, H4LT began tweeting its accomplishment to LizardSquad. LizardSquad has been making a name for itself lately by disrupting the networks of Sony's PlayStation and Microsoft's Xbox Live,” TechTimes writes.