Universal Windows Platform
Universal Windows Platform (UWP) is a Microsoft platform for building applications that run across all Windows 10 and Windows 11 devices, including PCs, tablets, phones, Xbox, HoloLens, and IoT devices. It provides a common app model, APIs, and tools to create adaptive user interfaces that scale across different screen sizes and input methods. UWP apps are distributed through the Microsoft Store and use a sandboxed security model for enhanced protection.
Developers should learn UWP when building cross-device Windows applications that need to reach a broad audience on Microsoft's ecosystem, such as productivity tools, games, or enterprise solutions. It's particularly useful for projects requiring a single codebase to target multiple Windows device families, leveraging features like adaptive UI, live tiles, and Cortana integration. UWP is ideal for scenarios where app distribution via the Microsoft Store and consistent performance across devices are priorities.