Apple has decided to release the newest version of their XCode Integrated Development Environment app for a price this time. While XCode has been free for owners of OS X machines and has been included on the install media for years they've decided to charge a nominal fee for the latest release: $4.99. If you are a registered Apple developer you will continue to receive XCode gratis; however, if you are a mere mortal like me you will now have to shell out a few bucks for the latest and greatest.

The newest version of XCode includes development environments for both OS X and iOS.� In addition to the regular integrated development environment being included they've also included the software development kits for both OS X and iOS, the iOS Simulator, and Instruments.

I've done a bit of development in XCode over the years.� My five favorite features included in this new version are:

1. Single window environment
2. Improved navigation
3. Built-in interface builder
4. Version editor
5. Instruments

If you do much development on OS X / iOS or you are looking to get involved I highly recommend that you checkout this new release.

[via TheRegister]