Other Runtimes and APIs Roadmap

Along with .NET, Microsoft supports several distinct API sets, including several legacy runtimes that are no longer recommended for new projects.

Product: Other Runtimes and APIs

Current Frameworks

Windows App SDK

The Windows App SDK is a platform framework that allows developers to build native Windows desktop applications using the latest UI design elements, such as those delivered with Windows 11.

Near Term (2025–2026)

Windows App SDK 1.7 is due in 2025 and is focused on quality, performance, and a smoother experience for developers.

Long Term (Beyond 2026)

Although Microsoft has not explicitly said so, if its vision for AI as the foundation for a new application stack comes to fruition, an AI-infused update to the Windows App SDK would be likely.

Office Add-ins

Office Add-ins is a development extensibility model that allows developers to build custom applications, using a JavaScript library, that are integrated with Office desktop and Web products.