As Microsoft continues to guide users through developing for its upcoming operating system, Windows 8, it outlines the 10 ways to be successful with the platform. Hopefully you’re paying attention.
Know how to build apps for Windows 8? See if the 10 points, below, ring Windows 8 bells
Microsoft has outlined the 10 ways to be successful when building apps for Windows. We’re continuing the coverage of the reason, below, in today’s third and final installment.
#8: Searching And Sharing
If you’re searching for an app in Windows 8, you’re probably going to be doing it via the Charms bar. The Charms bar is basically a context-sensitive bar that can be called upon across Windows 8. Therefore, Microsoft says that developers should be aware of not duplicating search in-apps (remove a search bar basically).
Developers should also be aware of Share, allowing apps to be connected — perhaps in ways developers might not imagine. For social network apps, it seems like a no-brainer.
#9: Don’t Put A Browser In An App
There may be an app that allows you click a link, opening a website page from the app. This has never been something I’ve liked in apps, because it’s clunky and can be slower than just switching to a browser and loading the website.
Microsoft says developers should try to have as few context switches as possible (different types of experiences within the app). It seems like Microsoft would prefer users to be switched to another browser.
Considering Everyone
#10: Accessibility Checklist, High Contrast
Windows 8 apps will be used by hundreds, thousand, hundreds of thousands, and maybe even millions of users. Therefore, you need to think about the varied user base and potential accessibility issues.
There are four key points developers need to hit: keyboard support, a high contrast theme, a high dpi (dots per inch) setting, and Windows accessibility. The latter covers the Narrator, Magnifier, and On-Screen Keyboard. Microsoft has an in-depth explanation of the specifics of accessibility features, so check out the source link for the information.
The software giant also said to test apps in High Contrast mode, which might uncover faults.
That’s everything! It’s a fantastic checklist if you’re building apps for Windows 8; exploiting the launch day rush could be the catalyst an app needs.
