Updated: July 14, 2020 (July 29, 2013)

Tools Target Windows 8 Application Development

Before joining Directions on Microsoft, Rob worked at Microsoft for 14 years where he designed technologies for Microsoft products and... more

The new Windows 8 Modern user interface (UI), a substantial departure from Windows UIs of the past, brings new challenges to application developers. Visual Studio (VS) 2012 includes new tools and features to help developers create Windows 8 applications and publish them to the online Windows Store. Many developer skills can be carried forward to work with the new OS, but existing applications require at least some rewriting, so VS 2012 is critical to the Windows development community.

VS Additions Ease Windows 8 App Development

VS 2012 is required for Windows 8 (and Windows RT, the version of Windows 8 for devices that use ARM-based hardware) application development in most cases. The new integrated development environment (IDE), which is itself refreshed with a new look that aligns with the Windows 8 style (although it runs in desktop mode, not in the Windows 8 Modern UI), brings several tools that focus on Windows 8. The tools, which become available within VS when it is installed on Windows 8, include the following:

Atlas Members have full access

Get access to this and thousands of other unbiased analyses, roadmaps, decision kits, infographics, reference guides, and more, all included with membership. Comprehensive access to the most in-depth and unbiased expertise for Microsoft enterprise decision-making is waiting.

Membership Options

Already have an account? Login Now

Not a member but want to see the full content? Contact us.