As this week's Game Developers Conference begins to wind down, much of the news surrounding Microsoft hinges on the Xbox One. More specifically the Windows 10 apps that the company plans to bring to the next-gen console. Earlier this week, a Microsoft spokesperson revealed that the company is readying several apps for release on their gaming platform come mid-year. Added to this, Business Insider is reporting that Microsoft will also be opening up a select number of Xbox One apps to developers over the course of the year.

According to The Verge, this move is motivated by Microsoft's desire to make app and game development for the Xbox One far easier through its universal strategy for Windows 10. As such, the company is aiming for developers to create one app that has cross-platform compatibility on the PC, smartphone, tablet and console.

Given that the on-screen look and feel for apps on Windows 10 Mobile and Xbox One are quite different, it will certainly prove a challenge from Microsoft's end to ensure the developer experience is as smooth as possible. While the full details of this plan are yet to be laid out, many expect Microsoft to do so at the Build conference later this month (30 March).