Homebrew apps
Other homebrew apps
Emulators get the most attention, but Developer Mode runs any compatible UWP app, so the console can host a variety of other homebrew and utility software. If a project provides an .appx or .appxbundle that fits the platform rules, you can sideload it the same way.
Kinds of apps
| Category | Examples of use |
|---|---|
| Media | Players and streaming front ends |
| Utilities | File tools and benchmarks |
| Games | Open source and hobby titles |
| Development | Your own UWP test builds |
Developer Mode is, after all, designed for building software. Hobbyists use it to run their own creations, while others install community projects that never appeared on the retail Store.
The same rules apply
- Each app obeys the 2 GB installed size cap.
- Apps run sandboxed and cannot write their install folder.
- Broad file access is needed to reach USB and user folders.
- Install, update, and remove everything through the Device Portal.
Try building your own
Because Dev Mode is a genuine development environment, you can compile a simple UWP app on a PC and deploy it straight to the console. It is an approachable way to learn the platform.
Only install packages from sources you trust. A sideloaded app runs with whatever capabilities its manifest requests.