Usability for Windows apps

It's the little touches and extra attention to detail that transform a good user experience into a truly inclusive one that meets the needs of users around the globe.

The guidance in this section helps you make your Windows app more usable by addressing accessibility, supporting bidirectional text, providing a well-designed settings experience, and offering help when users need it.

Accessibility

Accessibility is about making your app usable by people who have limitations that prevent or impede the use of conventional user interfaces. In some scenarios, accessibility requirements are imposed by law — but it's a good idea to address accessibility regardless, so your app reaches the largest possible audience.

Accessibility overview

An overview of the concepts and technologies related to accessibility scenarios for Windows apps.

Designing inclusive software

Learn about evolving inclusive design principles and how to apply them when building Windows apps.

For implementation guidance — including keyboard navigation, screen reader support, and contrast themes — see Develop accessible Windows apps.

Designing a settings page

App settings let users customize your app and tailor it to their individual needs and preferences. Providing the right settings — and presenting them clearly — can make a great user experience even better.

Designing a settings page

Best practices for creating, organizing, and displaying app settings.

Store and retrieve app data

How to store and retrieve local, roaming, and temporary app data.

Design your app for bidirectional text

Windows is used worldwide by audiences that speak many different languages — including languages such as Arabic and Hebrew that are read from right to left. Designing your app to handle bidirectional (BiDi) text correctly helps you reach a broader, global audience.

Design your app for bidirectional text

In-app help

No matter how well you've designed your app, some users will need a little extra help.

Guidelines for app help

Applications can be complex, and providing effective help for your users can greatly improve their experience.

Instructional UI

Teach users about functions in your app that might not be obvious — such as specific touch interactions — by surfacing instructions through the UI.

In-app help

Most of the time, help is best displayed within the app, when the user chooses to view it. Follow these guidelines when creating in-app help.

External help

Guidance for providing help content outside of your app, such as on a website or in a separate document.