Not since the introduction of the .NET runtime has a Microsoft release changed the game as much for application developers. The release of the Windows 8 operating system and its new development platform gives developers an entirely new way to create rich Windows based applications. Starting with Windows 8 developers, can make use of familiar technologies- HTML 5, CSS 3, and JavaScript- to write full featured Windows apps. As with all previous releases of Windows, traditional C++ and .NET applications are still supported but the buzz centers around the possibility of writing apps under the new paradigm. This book takes the user on a course through all of the new development features of the Windows 8 platform, specifically the new support for rich HTML based applications. Readers see how to best utilize all the features of the platform, including the new Windows Runtime, User Interface controls, File I/O, Tablet and Mobile support, and even how to integrate with the soon to be available Windows App Store.

It is an exciting time for Windows developers and the release of Windows 8 gives developers many new options for targeting Windows users with technologies and code they have already written for the web. Content includes: A discussion of Windows 8 including the SDK. Understanding Application logic, including best practices for Windows 8 apps, building .NET libraries, and organizing JavaScript app logic Data access including using SQL Express, file system and storage options and JavaScript Handling Media such as sounds, graphics, video and DirectX Creating apps for Tablets, including touch-screen Testing your applications including optimizing for various screens Incorporating social elements, such as Twitter, Facebook, Google! and YouTube Localizing with multiple languages and external resources Monetizing your apps including making your apps stand out Storing data, hooking everything to app logic, supporting PCs, Tablets and Phones and getting apps ready for the Windows 8 app store.