Fundamentals for Developing Cross-Platform Apps with .NET MAUI

Subjects

Introduction

• Understand the fundamental concepts of cross-compiling, cross-platform development, and native development
• Gain insight into the high-level differences between iOS, Android, and Windows platforms
• Acquire knowledge of the basic structure of a .NET MAUI app, including the manifest file, startup file, and permissions
• Comprehend the historical context of .NET MAUI, including its evolution from WPF and Xamarin
• Familiarize oneself with the architecture of .NET MAUI, including XAML usage and project structure

User Interface Design with XAML

• Differentiate between C# and XAML for UI design in .NET MAUI applications
• Understand the role of code-behind files in .NET MAUI development
• Explore common layout patterns and components such as lists, tables, and menus
• Master styling and theming techniques for enhancing the visual appeal of .NET MAUI apps

Architectural Patterns

• Understand the principles and benefits of dependency injection in .NET MAUI applications
• Implement the MVVM architectural pattern, including reacting to changes
• Learn to utilize CommunityToolkit.Mvvm to reduce boilerplate code

Data Entry

• Utilize various input methods such as text entry fields, buttons, and other UI components like combo boxes, checkboxes, sliders, and gesture recognition

Routing

• Implement navigation patterns in .NET MAUI
  • The navigation object
  • Pushing and popping screens
  • Incorporating in-app web views
• Understand URI-based navigation for seamless app navigation experiences

Data Storage

• Learn to use Local Storage to data locally within the app directory
• Implement an SQLite database to store structured data

Backend Communication

• Establish communication between .NET MAUI apps and backend services, covering concepts like RESTful APIs and data serialization
• Understand how to utilize Connectivity Services in .NET MAUI

Native Features

• Utilize native features like location services, camera access, notifications, and implementing native handlers for specialized functionalities

Testing

• Evaluate different testing frameworks (XUnit vs NUnit vs MSTest) for .NET MAUI applications
• Implement unit testing, integration testing, and assess test effectiveness using mutation testing
• Explore UI testing strategies

Accessibility Basics

• Ensure accessibility in .NET MAUI apps through label association and semantic properties for improved user experience