Microsoft has unveiled an exciting update to its Windows 11 app development toolkit, enhancing the capabilities available to developers. The WinUI Gallery has been upgraded to version 3.0, introducing a fresh perspective on experimental features that aim to inspire creativity and innovation in app design.
Enhancements in WinUI Gallery 3.0
The WinUI Gallery serves as a vital resource for developers, showcasing how Windows UI components function and guiding them in creating applications that seamlessly integrate with the Windows 11 aesthetic. With the latest version, several quality-of-life improvements have been implemented, as highlighted by Niels Laute, a Senior Product Manager at Microsoft:
- Mouse back and forward buttons: Users can now navigate through the Gallery using mouse buttons, mirroring the familiar experience of web browsing (#2195), a feature made possible thanks to @hoshiizumiya!
- Enhanced search functionality: Each control page now includes search tags, enabling developers to find relevant information with ease. Searching for terms like “context menu,” “carousel,” or “WCAG” will lead to the appropriate page, even if the search term doesn’t match the control’s official name (#2185).
- No more dead ends: In cases where a search yields no results, users will now see their query alongside helpful tips and a button to view all available samples (#2255), a thoughtful addition credited to @Zakariathr22!
With the introduction of experimental controls in WinUI Gallery 3.0, developers can now explore a variety of new samples, including TableView, Charts, and Wrap Panel and LayoutPanel. These tools empower app creators to present data in more digestible formats, enhancing user experience and engagement.
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