Windows 8 Apps vs. Desktop Apps: 7 Key Differences

A Comparison of Windows 8 Apps and Traditional Desktop Applications

Apps designed for Windows 8 – initially referred to as Metro-style apps, and subsequently known as Windows 8 style, Modern UI style, or Windows Store style apps – exhibit significant differences when contrasted with conventional desktop applications.

The Modern interface represents more than just a visual update. The underlying Windows Runtime, or WinRT, application architecture – distinct from Windows RT – is fundamentally different from the familiar Windows desktop environment.

Exclusive Availability Through the Windows Store

Unlike typical Windows desktop programs, Modern-style applications can only be installed via the Windows Store. All applications intended for installation must undergo submission to, and approval by, Microsoft. If an app is removed or rejected, installation is prohibited.

This approach offers certain advantages, notably enhanced security by preventing the installation of malware, especially on Windows RT systems where desktop applications are unsupported.

“Sideloading” – installing unapproved applications – is only possible on Windows systems connected to a domain (like a corporate network) or through the use of a developer key.

Sandboxed Environment for Enhanced Security

Historically, standard Windows desktop applications possessed broad access to system resources. While User Account Control has mitigated some risks, desktop applications still retain considerable potential for disruption. They could potentially access and transmit personal files, delete data, or capture sensitive information.

Modern apps operate within a sandboxed environment, employing a permissions system akin to that of Android. Installation requires users to acknowledge the permissions an app requests. This boosts security, though it can sometimes be restrictive. For instance, the built-in Photos app may be limited to viewing images within the Pictures library.

Limitations in Concurrent Application Execution

Traditional desktop applications run concurrently, allowing multiple windows to be open and visible simultaneously, with many operating in the background.

Modern apps function more like their mobile counterparts. Opening a Modern app typically occupies the entire screen, preventing the simultaneous display of multiple Modern app interfaces. When switching away, the app enters a suspended state, conserving system resources.

The interface does offer some multitasking capabilities via the Snap feature, enabling the display of two apps concurrently. However, one app is typically relegated to a smaller, simplified interface occupying one-quarter of the screen, while the primary app utilizes the remaining three-quarters. True split-screen multitasking, similar to Aero Snap, is not available.

Always-On Operation and Background Management

Mirroring mobile app behavior, Modern apps do not require explicit closing. Switching away from an app simply places it in the background without significant resource consumption. While closing is possible, Microsoft intentionally made the process less obvious, discouraging frequent app closures.

Distinctive Design and User Interface

Regardless of personal preference, the Windows 8 interface presents a more consistent and unified design compared to the varied styles of traditional Windows desktop applications.

Originally dubbed “Metro” for its emphasis on typography, the interface prioritizes content by minimizing distracting elements like toolbars and window borders. Options are often hidden by default, as exemplified by the full-screen browser experience in Internet Explorer 10.

Many Modern apps utilize left-to-right scrolling and a semantic zoom feature, allowing users to zoom out for an overview and then zoom in on specific content.

System-Level Integration of Interface Elements

Rather than implementing independent menus and functionalities, Modern apps integrate with system-wide options. For example, app settings are accessed through the Settings charm (activated by pressing Ctrl+I), providing a unified interface.

Searching within an app is similarly streamlined. Accessing the charms bar, selecting Search, and entering a query allows users to search across all installed apps from a consistent interface.

Programming Language Flexibility

While C/C++ and .NET languages remain viable options, JavaScript and HTML5 are now fully supported for Modern app development. This approach aims to attract web developers and facilitate the creation of Windows 8 versions of existing web applications.

WinRT apps support both x86 and ARM architectures, ensuring compatibility with both Windows 8 and Windows RT systems.

The design of Windows 8 clearly reflects inspiration from mobile platforms and the web – a logical progression considering that Windows 8 is the first version of Windows specifically engineered for tablet devices.