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Build the Windows app you've always wanted with an AI agent

Most people have an idea for an app that would make their own work or life easier, but never had the time or experience to build it. AI coding agents change that. You describe what you want in plain language, and the agent helps you create the project, write the code, fix build errors, and package the app. You stay in charge of what the app does.

You don't need to be an experienced Windows developer to start. If you are one, an agent can take care of the repetitive work so you spend your time on the parts of the app that matter.

Ideas worth building

The best first apps solve a problem you have today. For example:

  • A tracker for a hobby, a collection, or a training plan.
  • A planner for your chores, recipes, or weekly schedule.
  • A tool that renames, sorts, or tidies a folder of files.
  • A small dashboard for data you check every day.
  • A front end for a task you currently do in a spreadsheet or by hand.

Start small. A focused app that does one thing well is easier to build, test, and publish, and you can add features later.

What an agent does for you

  • Sets up the project. Creates a WinUI project and installs the tools it needs.
  • Writes and explains code. Turns your description into pages, controls, and app logic, and explains what it wrote when you ask.
  • Finds the right APIs and samples. With the WinUI agent plugin, an agent can look up current Windows APIs and samples instead of guessing.
  • Fixes build errors. Reads the error, changes the code, and builds again.
  • Helps you test and package. Runs your app, helps write tests, and prepares a package to share directly or submit to the Microsoft Store.

What stays with you

An agent speeds you up, but it doesn't replace your judgment.

  • Decide what the app should do. Be specific about the problem, who uses the app, and what "done" looks like.
  • Review what the agent produces. Agents can mix WinUI 3 code with APIs from older frameworks, or make changes you didn't ask for. Build and run the app often, and ask the agent to explain anything you don't understand.
  • Test with real use. Try your core scenarios yourself, including with the keyboard and a screen reader. See Test your Windows app before you ship.
  • Own your accounts, certificates, and submissions. If you publish to the Microsoft Store, creating a developer account, accepting agreements, and approving a submission are steps you do yourself. If you distribute your app yourself, you get and protect your code-signing certificate.
  • Protect your data and secrets. Don't give an agent passwords, certificates, or personal data it doesn't need. See Security and responsible AI.

Get started

  1. Complete steps 1–3 of the quickstart: Build and publish a Windows app with AI to create and run your app. Before you continue to its packaging and publishing steps, plan how you'll distribute your app, and test the release package before you submit it.
  2. For a longer guided project, build a WinUI app with an AI assistant.
  3. When your app works, plan how you'll distribute it, test it, and publish it.

Next steps

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