Building Windows 8.1 Apps from the Ground Up

Building Windows 8.1 Apps from the Ground Up

Released December 2013
Publisher(s): Apress
ISBN: 9781430247012

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Book description

This book is the perfect introduction for anyone wanting to create sophisticated Windows 8 apps for the first time.

Assuming only a basic knowledge of HTML and CSS we'll walk you through the development process using C# and VB. The book will familiarize you with the tools you'll need to use in order to make the most of Windows' stunning new features. You'll discover how to take advantage of the built-in functionality to create high quality user experiences.

What you'll learn

  • How to plan out your app and its user-experience

  • The pros and cons of the different development languages available to you

  • To build well-structured apps that can be easily customized and reused

  • Manage data stores and cloud storage

  • Why accessibility and globalization matter, even to the smallest of apps

  • Use Windows 8's features to interact with the world around you

    • Who this book is for

    This book is ideal for anyone with a little programming knowledge (basic HTML and CSS is all you'll need) who want to start creating Windows 8 apps. This book will walk you through everything you need to know in a results-oriented way and ensure your first Windows 8 apps built on firm foundations that you can be proud of.

    Table of contents

    1. Title Page
    2. Contents at a Glance
    3. Contents
    4. About the Authors
    5. About the Technical Reviewer
    6. CHAPTER 1: Introduction to Windows 8.1
      1. Once Upon a Time in Windows
      2. Thinking in Metro: Fundamentals of the Windows Store App UI
      3. Platform and Tools
      4. Conclusions
    7. CHAPTER 2: Windows Runtime Environment
      1. Windows 8 Platform
      2. Application Model
      3. Communication and Data
      4. Devices and Printing
      5. Conclusion
    8. CHAPTER 3: Designing the User Experience
      1. Touch Design Principles
      2. Control Library
      3. List Management Controls
      4. Orientation and Layout
      5. Semantic Zoom
      6. Contracts and Extensions
      7. Conclusion
    9. CHAPTER 4: Choose Your Way
      1. Choosing Your Way
      2. Using XAML and the .NET Languages
      3. A Quick Introduction to JavaScript and C++
      4. What Language Should You Choose?
      5. Conclusion
    10. CHAPTER 5: Managing the Application Life Cycle
      1. Dissecting the Application Life Cycle
      2. Activated Event
      3. Visibility Changed Event
      4. Resuming Event
      5. Conclusion
    11. CHAPTER 6: Start Up Your App
      1. Design the User Interface
      2. Choose the Right Tool
      3. Conclusion
    12. CHAPTER 7: Take Advantage of the Environment
      1. Sensors
      2. Media
      3. Background Task
      4. Charms
      5. Conclusion
    13. CHAPTER 8: Data Management
      1. Handling Data in a Windows Store App
      2. Using SQLite for Windows Store Apps
      3. Retrieving Remote Data
      4. Retrieving Data from Windows Communication Foundation
      5. Retrieving Data from Windows Azure Mobile Services
      6. Managing User Info
      7. Conclusion
    14. CHAPTER 9: Listening to the World
      1. Notifications Overview
      2. Sending Notifications
      3. Conclusion
    15. CHAPTER 10: Accessibility and Globalization
      1. Get Ready for Accessibility
      2. Get Ready for Localization
      3. Conclusion
    16. CHAPTER 11: Sell Your App
      1. Windows Store
      2. Submit Your App
      3. Monitoring Your App
      4. Updating Your App
      5. Conclusion
    17. APPENDIX A: Live Tile and Toast Templates
      1. Live Tile
      2. Toast Templates
    18. APPENDIX B: Windows Store Developer Account
    19. Index

    Product information

    • Title: Building Windows 8.1 Apps from the Ground Up
    • Author(s):
    • Release date: December 2013
    • Publisher(s): Apress
    • ISBN: 9781430247012