Windows SDK Archives

Winsage

March 4, 2026

Windows App Development CLI Updated with .NET Project Support, More

Microsoft has released version 0.2 of its Windows App Development CLI (winapp), incorporating several new features based on community feedback. Key updates include first-class support for .NET projects, allowing integration of WinUI 3, WPF, Windows Forms, and .NET console applications. Developers can initialize projects with winapp init, which aligns them with the appropriate Windows SDK version and generates necessary folders. The update also introduces manifest placeholders for easier app packaging, integrates Microsoft Store CLI commands into winapp, and enhances the help and error messaging system for better usability. Additional improvements include new commands for external catalogs and package identity, updates to winapp pack and manifest update-assets, and a Flutter guide with a sample project for using Windows App SDK APIs.

Winsage

September 18, 2025

Microsoft insists the new Outlook delivers a “native” experience — but I’m not convinced

Microsoft is encouraging users to adopt the new Outlook app, which has been the default email and calendar solution for Windows 11 since its launch. Users face challenges with the new Outlook, including advertisements unless they pay for a subscription and the absence of several features from the previous Mail & Calendar app. Many users still prefer the classic Mail & Calendar app and express a desire for its return. The new Outlook is categorized as a Progressive Web App (PWA), raising questions about its classification as a native application. Critics have pointed out issues with the app's performance, design, and feature set, with some stating it does not meet user expectations. Microsoft has disabled the Mail & Calendar app on Windows 10 to compel users to transition to the new Outlook.

Winsage

September 3, 2025

Solve shortcut chaos with PowerToys

PowerToys has introduced a hotkey conflict detection system in its latest update, which helps users identify and resolve overlapping keyboard shortcuts. The update also includes a search function in PowerToys Settings, a new "Gliding cursor" feature in Mouse Utilities, and enhancements to the installer for improved security and reliability. Additional improvements include bug fixes and updates across various utilities, such as Command Palette, Hosts File Editor, and Quick Accent, with a focus on usability and accessibility.

Winsage

September 19, 2024

Bringing Universal Windows Platform apps to .NET 9

Microsoft has introduced a suite of tools to enhance UWP support in .NET 9, aimed at helping developers upgrade their existing code gradually. This includes tools that operate across Visual Studio, the Windows SDK, and the .NET framework, allowing migration of C# code to the Windows App SDK. The migration process is incremental, enabling developers to adopt Win UI elements while still using some XAML Islands functionalities. Microsoft is actively using these tools for its app updates, with the Microsoft Store set to deliver a native AOT version after .NET 9's general availability, expected in November. The new toolkit eliminates reliance on outdated .NET Native tooling, allowing access to newer .NET features and broader integration of libraries, simplifying the upgrade process and enabling developers to utilize the latest innovations in the .NET ecosystem.

Winsage

September 18, 2024

Launching Windows 11 apps could get up to 50% faster thanks to this new tech

Microsoft has introduced native Ahead of Time (AOT) support in the Windows App SDK, which is expected to significantly improve application launch times for Windows 11. Internal testing indicates a 50% reduction in application start times and an approximate eightfold decrease in package size. The AOT feature allows applications to be compiled to native code in advance, bypassing the usual translation process during execution, thereby reducing workload and improving startup speed. However, the effectiveness of AOT will depend on developers updating their applications to utilize this capability, and improvements will take time to manifest as adoption varies among developers.