Some Xbox users are finding that Dev Mode is being disabled on their consoles due to “inactivity.” The common thread seems to be that these users are using Dev Mode to install Retroarch. The “Access Restricted” message users are getting is forboding. This might lead some to believe Microsoft is cracking down on emulation, but the actual cause is likely more benign.
Is Microsoft disabling Xbox Dev Mode because of emulators?
It doesn’t appear that Dev Mode is being disabled on Xbox Series S and Xbox Series X consoles due to users installing Retroarch or any other emulator. Those that have been affected received the following email:
“We have disabled the Windows and Xbox enrollment in your Microsoft Partner Center account because it did not have an active presence in the Store. For reference, see the Developer Code of Conduct (https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/uwp/publish/store-developer-code-of-conduct), which says that an active presence in the Store must be maintained.”
The key provision in the linked Developer Code of Conduct indicates that those using Dev Mode are expected to be active in the Store. That means accounts that aren’t uploading may be marked as “inactive” and deactivated. Users on GBAtemp stated that they were told that 90 days was the time limit, but there’s no official confirmation of that.
Obviously, users are upset about being locked out of Xbox Dev Mode since it requires a payment of $20 (for US users). Some are reporting that they were able to contact support and have Dev Mode reinstated, but that’s not guaranteed to work, especially if a flood of users begin requesting it.
Unfortunately, due to high PC hardware prices, the Xbox Series S and Xbox Series X were among the most cost-effective emulation devices on the market. Though the stipulation that those using Dev Mode maintain an active store presence has been there, it could be the case that Microsoft is enforcing it due to the number of people using it to install emulators. Alternatively, Microsoft could have just decided to enforce the guidelines users agreed to when signing up for Dev Mode regardless of any apps installed.
