5 Useful Tools for Developing Windows App on Win 8.1 There are certain applications for Mobile and Web that are designed to run either on a cross platform or on an independent platform. One of such applications is Windows apps, which has following three types: Windows Runtime Windows Phone Store Windows Store Windows Runtime app uses the Windows runtime environment and run on various Windows devices, such as PC or tablet. If a Windows Runtime app runs on a PCs, laptop, and tablets then, it is called a Windows Store app. However, if a Windows Runtime app runs on the Windows Phone then, it is referred to as Windows Phone Store app. There is one more type of Windows app named as Universal Windows apps that offers the flexibility of an application package that can be used or distributed on any Windows device. The templates of these Universal Windows apps helps developers to create both Windows store and Windows Phone store apps in the same project. Windows Runtime apps can be created using the most familiar programming languages, which includes JavaScript, C#, Visual Basic, or C++, and so on. These apps are even capable of delivering relevant, real-time information to users, which inturn encourages user to continue using them for more. With the increasingly competitive modern app market, it is important that your app be engaging enough for users to keep returning to. Here are some important tools and elements that your app must include to succeed in the market: A lock screen that shows contextually relevant information and timely data in one glance This means using live tiles and other easily recognizable elements. Push notifications that provide up-to-date and real time alerts to the user's attention whenever needed.
An Action Center (Windows Phone) where user can organize and display notifications and content that requires user to consider and take action accordingly. Flexible plug-ins that allow users to interact with the app and the world around them simultaneously. This is particularly important in today's multi-tasking world.The Windows Credential Locker is another useful tool to use, enabling consistent roaming experience for users across all Windows screens. This allows convenient storage of users' settings and preferences in the cloud without requiring a sync infrastructure. About the Author: Namitha Sharma is the manager of marketing communication at Q3 Technologies. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce from the University of Delhi, New Delhi. Since 1991, Q3 Technologies has built a reputation of developing world-class technology. Be it a software development or application development, Q3 always delivered high-quality, reliable and cost-effective IT services to clients around the world.