Microsoft Announces a Command Line Utility for Windows App Developers
Thurrott.com • • technology
Key Points:
- Microsoft has released the Windows App Development CLI (winapp) in public preview, an open source command line tool aimed at simplifying Windows app development across various frameworks and toolchains.
- The winapp CLI supports developers using cross-platform frameworks and those working outside Visual Studio or MSBuild, enabling easier access to modern Windows APIs, including AI, security, and shell integrations.
- Key features include one-command environment setup, automated manifest and certificate creation, package identity for debugging, simplified MSIX packaging, and integration with Electron via an npm package.
- The tool automates complex tasks such as SDK downloads, project configuration, app packaging, and signing, significantly speeding up development and testing workflows.
- The winapp CLI is available for download on GitHub and
