Master Windows 8.1/Windows Runtime Programming Through 80 Expert Projects
This is the most complete, hands-on, solutions-focused guide to programming modern Windows applications with the Windows Runtime.

Leading Windows development consultants Jeremy Likness and John Garland present easy-to-adapt C# and XAML example code for more than 80 projects. Their real-world application examples help you apply Windows 8.1’s best improvements, including large tiles, the new search control, flyouts, command bars, native WinRT networking, and new deployment and sideloading options.

Drawing on their pioneering experience, they illuminate key areas of the Windows Runtime API, offering uniquely detailed coverage of encryption, cloud connectivity, devices, printers, and media integration. You’ll find cutting-edge tips and tricks available in no other book.

This is an indispensable resource for all intermediate-to-advanced Windows developers, and for any architect building desktop, tablet, or mobile solutions with Microsoft technologies. Its focus on both C# and XAML will make it valuable to millions of Windows developers already familiar with Silverlight, WPF, and/or .NET.

Coverage includes
• Creating robust app interfaces with the newest XAML controls, including flyouts and command bars
• Saving data in a persistent “roaming zone” for syncing across Windows 8.1 devices
• Using Visual State Manager (VSM) to build apps that adapt to various device resolutions and orientations
• Integrating virtually any form of data into your apps
• Connecting with web services, RSS, Atom feeds, and social networks
• Securing apps via authentication, encrypting, signing, and single sign-on with Microsoft Account, Facebook, Google, and more
• Leveraging Windows 8.1 media enhancements that improve battery life and app performance
• Networking more effectively with Windows 8.1’s revamped HTTP implementation and new location APIs
• Using Tiles and Toasts to keep apps alive and connected, even when they aren’t running
• Enabling users to send content between devices via NFC tap and send
• Ensuring accessibility and globalizing your apps
• Efficiently debugging, optimizing, packaging, and deploying your apps
• Building sideloadable apps that don’t have to be published in Windows Store

“This book doesn’t just focus on singular concepts, it also provides end-to-end perspective on building an app in WinRT. It is one of those essential tools for Windows developers that will help you complete your software goals sooner than without it!”
—Tim Heuer, Principal Program Manager Lead, XAML Platform, Microsoft Corporation

This is the most complete, solutions-focused reference for programming modern Windows Store apps with Windows Runtime. Replete with rich code examples, case studies, downloadable projects, and proven solutions, it thoroughly illuminates key areas of the Windows Runtime API, from networking to sensors and beyond.

Drawing on his pioneering Windows 8/Windows RT development experience, three-time Microsoft MVP Jeremy Likness tackles specific problems with expert solutions presented in recipe style. Likness focuses on Microsoft's two most popular tools for Windows Runtime development: the C# language and the XAML technology that drives Windows 8 user interfaces.

Writing for intermediate-to-advanced Windows developers, he presents expert tips, development tricks, and specific solutions for a wide spectrum of apps: consumer, media, social networking, syndication, and more. Dedicated chapters focus on line of business apps, tapping into Likness's experience managing some of the first Windows 8 business apps ever to be released. You'll also learn how to:

• Write highly optimized Windows Store apps based on a detailed understanding of the underlying framework and architecture
• Discovering best practices for building apps that connect with social networks, authenticate with Windows Live accounts, and cache data locally to work offline
• Understanding advanced features of the Windows Runtime covered in no other book