dotnet-winui

Develop Windows desktop applications with WinUI 3 and the Windows App SDK.

71|10|Updated Feb 11, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/wshaddix/dotnet-skills --skill dotnet-winui-wshaddix
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: dotnet-winui
Source: https://github.com/wshaddix/dotnet-skills/tree/main/skills/dotnet-winui
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/wshaddix/dotnet-skills --skill dotnet-winui-wshaddix

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes scripts (resource) and references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This Skill simplifies the process of developing modern desktop applications for Windows using the WinUI 3 framework, covering everything from project setup to deployment.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Project Setup: Guides you through setting up new WinUI 3 projects with the Windows App SDK.
  • XAML Patterns: Demonstrates best practices for XAML, including compiled bindings (x:Bind) and deferred loading (x:Load).
  • MVVM Implementation: Shows how to integrate CommunityToolkit.Mvvm for robust Model-View-ViewModel architecture.
  • Packaging: Explains MSIX and unpackaged deployment options.
  • Windows Integration: Covers app lifecycle, notifications, and widgets.
  • UWP Migration: Provides guidance on migrating existing UWP applications to WinUI 3.

Quick Start

Set up a new WinUI 3 project using the UseWinUI property in your .csproj file.

Frequently Asked Questions about dotnet-winui

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I set up a new WinUI 3 project with the Windows App SDK?▼

Configure your .NET 8.0+ project file using the `UseWinUI` property to integrate the Windows App SDK 1.6+. This setup establishes the baseline for building modern Windows desktop applications.

What is the best way to implement MVVM in WinUI 3?▼

Implement MVVM in WinUI 3 by integrating CommunityToolkit.Mvvm for a robust Model-View-ViewModel architecture. This works seamlessly with XAML patterns like compiled bindings and deferred loading.

How do I migrate an existing UWP application to WinUI 3?▼

Migrate a UWP application to WinUI 3 by following targeted migration strategies that transition your project to the Windows App SDK. This process leverages .NET 8.0+ and modern XAML patterns for desktop deployment.

Does WinUI 3 support unpackaged deployment?▼

Yes, WinUI 3 supports unpackaged deployment alongside MSIX packaging. You can configure your Windows desktop application for either deployment option depending on your distribution requirements.

What XAML patterns should I use for Windows App SDK development?▼

Use XAML patterns like compiled bindings (`x:Bind`) and deferred loading (`x:Load`) for Windows App SDK development. These best practices optimize performance and UI rendering within your WinUI 3 application.

Can I use Windows integration features like notifications in WinUI 3?▼

Yes, you can use Windows integration features in WinUI 3, including app lifecycle management, notifications, and widgets. These capabilities are built into the Windows App SDK for modern desktop applications.