Key Points:
- Microsoft has announced the public preview of the Windows App Development CLI (winapp), a new open-source command-line tool designed to simplify the development lifecycle for Windows applications.
- The winapp CLI aims to unify tasks such as environment setup, packaging, and certificate management, making it easier for developers to access modern Windows APIs and features.
- The tool supports various frameworks, including Electron,.NET, C++, and Rust, and provides features like one-command environment setup, package identity for debugging, and simplified MSIX packaging.
Microsoft has announced the public preview of the Windows App Development CLI (winapp), a new open-source command-line tool designed to simplify the development lifecycle for Windows applications. The winapp CLI is specifically tailored for cross-platform frameworks and developers working outside of Visual Studio or MSBuild. The goal of this project is to unify tasks such as environment setup, packaging, and certificate management, making it easier for developers to access modern Windows APIs and features.
The winapp CLI provides several features to streamline the development process. One-command environment setup allows developers to bootstrap their entire workspace with a single command, downloading necessary SDK packages, generating projections, and configuring the project for development. Package identity for debugging enables developers to add package identity to their executable with a single command, allowing for easier testing and debugging of code requiring package identity.
The tool also simplifies working with manifests and certificates, automating the creation and management of appxmanifest.xml and development certificates. Simplified MSIX packaging allows developers to package their application as an MSIX with a single command, producing a store-ready or sideload-ready package from their build output.
In addition, the winapp CLI provides Electron integration, making it easier for Electron developers to integrate high-performance native features or AI capabilities into their apps. The CLI can scaffold C++ or C# native addons, pre-configured to access the Windows App SDK and Windows SDK.
The Windows App Development CLI is available now in public preview, and developers can install it via WinGet or npm. Microsoft is seeking feedback from developers to validate the CLI and focus investments on the areas that matter most. The company has also provided guides and documentation to help developers get started quickly, including Electron,.NET, C++, and Rust guides.
As the winapp CLI continues to evolve, it is expected to have a significant impact on the development of Windows applications, making it easier for developers to access modern APIs and features. With its public preview, Microsoft is taking a significant step towards simplifying the development lifecycle for Windows applications, and developers can expect to see continued improvements and updates to the tool in the future.
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