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.