.NET MAUI (Multi-platform App UI) is a sophisticated framework for creating apps that run on Android, iOS, Windows, and MacOS. It allows developers to write code once and deploy it across numerous platforms, saving time and effort.
.NET MAUI allows you to design modern, responsive, and visually appealing apps. It uses C# and XAML, making it simple for developers who are familiar with custom .NET app development to start.
This guide will teach you the fundamentals of MAUI .NET. You’ll discover its essential features, how it works, and why it’s ideal for cross-platform app development. Whether you are a newbie or an expert, this post will explain how to start using .NET MAUI.
Full Definition of What is .NET MAUI
.NET MAUI is a framework for developing cross-platform apps. It enables developers to construct programs that operate on Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS from a single codebase. With Microsoft .NET, you can write your app in C# and XAML while the framework handles platform-specific aspects.
.NET MAUI is the official successor for Xamarin.Forms. It is built on Xamarin Forms, but with greater performance, simpler development, and enhanced features. It integrates the development experience, eliminating the need to manage different projects for each platform.
One of the primary advantages of .NET MAUI is its single project structure. This makes it easy to transfer code and resources between platforms. Developers can also tailor the app’s appearance and behavior to each platform as needed.
Purposes to Use Microsoft MAUI
.NET MAUI is intended for developers who want to create programs that operate across various platforms. It’s great for anyone who needs to create Android, iOS, Windows, or macOS programs from a single codebase. The framework is perfect for:
- Beginner developers learning to build cross-platform applications.
- Experienced developers who understand what is MAUI and Xamarin.Forms.
- Small teams looking to save time and resources.
- Businesses aiming to reach people across several platforms.
- Freelancers developing apps for clients with a variety of platform requirements.
.NET MAUI is an ideal choice for developers seeking code reuse across platforms, consistent app design and performance, and reducing the complexity of managing separate projects for each platform.
What is MAUI in .NET and How it Works?
.NET MAUI’s layered architecture facilitates cross-platform app development. It enables you to create a single codebase for many platforms. The framework handles platform-specific changes while still providing native performance and look.
Here is what is MAUI .NET and it’s algorithm:
- Single project structure. In one project you handle all app files, resources, and code. This lowers complexity.
- Shared codebase. Platforms let one share the fundamental application logic. You work in C# and XAML.
- Handlers. Handlers in .Net MAUI map controls like buttons and labels to native platform components. This guarantees a native-looking and feeling app.
- Platform-specific code. You can apply changes particular to platforms as needed.
.NET MAUI integrates seamlessly into the .NET ecosystem. It supports Visual Studio, NuGet packages, and Microsoft MAUI libraries.
This architecture ensures that your software functions perfectly across Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS. It shortens development time while ensuring a high-quality user experience.
Main Features of .NET MAUI
The framework gives numerous opportunities for seamless app creation. .NET MAUI is perfect for different purposes and industries giving numerous features:
- Rich controls. .NET MAUI has a variety of built-in controls like buttons, labels, sliders, and more. These controls are tailored to the unique look and feel of each platform. Custom control libraries can also be used to increase functionality and provide distinctive user interfaces.
- High performance. .NET MAUI provides native-like performance by leveraging the platform’s basic UI frameworks. Its streamlined architecture minimizes overhead, making apps more responsive and efficient.
- Cross-platform templates. MAUI contains ready-made templates for swiftly creating projects. These templates adhere to standard practices, which saves you time and ensures consistency across platforms.
- Customizable handlers. MAUI’s handlers map controls to native components. These handlers can be customized to change behavior or generate unique designs for certain platforms.
Besides, with MAUI .NET all of your app files, resources, and platform-specific configurations are managed in a single project. This simplifies both development and maintenance.
.NET MAUI vs. Other Tools
When selecting a framework for cross-platform app development, it is critical to understand how the various solutions compare. .NET MAUI, Xamarin, React Native, and Flutter are some of the most popular options. Each framework boasts distinct strengths, supported platforms, and development tools.
| Feature | .NET MAUI | Xamarin | React Native | Flutter |
| Languages | C#, XAML | C#, XAML | JavaScript, TypeScript | Dart |
| Supported Platforms | Android, iOS, Windows, macOS | Android, iOS, Windows, macOS | Android, iOS, Web | Android, iOS, Web, Linux, macOS, Windows |
| UI Framework | Native controls (via Handlers) | Native controls (via Renderers) | Custom UI (bridged to native) | Custom UI (Skia-based engine) |
| Performance | High (native-first approach) | Moderate (renderer overhead) | Moderate (bridge overhead) | High (compiled to native code) |
| Single Codebase | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Tooling | Integrated with Visual Studio | Integrated with Visual Studio | Requires external tools (e.g., VS Code) | Integrated with Flutter Dev Tools |
| Learning Curve | Easy for .NET developers | Easy for .NET developers | Easy for web developers | Moderate (requires Dart knowledge) |
| Community Support | Growing rapidly | Established but declining | Large and active | Large and active |
| Customization | High, with customizable handlers | Moderate, with custom renderers | Moderate | High, using custom widgets |
This comparison highlights each framework’s capabilities, strengths, and target audiences, assisting you in determining which one best meets your objectives.
.NET MAUI Relevance
Many firms across industries use .NET MAUI to develop cross-platform applications. They take advantage of its ability to build programs for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS from a single codebase. For example, several firms have adopted .NET MAUI to create applications with increased speed and a natural feel across platforms:
- NBC Sports Next. In 2022, the NBC Sports Next mobile development team updated their Sports Engine app with .NET MAUI. The use of.NET MAUI enables the team to cooperate and exchange code across the web.
- Alpha Outdoors: Red Point. Alpha Outdoors’ Red-Point smartphone app, designed with .NET MAUI and Azure, makes rock climbing accessible to the public.
The framework is also popular in healthcare, e-commerce, and enterprise-level applications. There, it saves development teams a substantial amount of time and money. Businesses that understand what is MAUI in .NET may decrease the requirement for several development teams.
Final Thoughts on .NET MAUI
Now you know what is .NET MAUI. It’s a good option for creating cross-platform applications. It provides native performance and a consistent codebase across numerous platforms. It is extensively employed by enterprises from many industries, resulting in speedier development. If you’re ready to look into.NET MAUI for your next project, contact us now!
