OpenSilver is an open-source framework that enables developers to build cross-platform applications using C#, VB.NET, or F# and XAML. Designed as a modern successor to Microsoft Silverlight, OpenSilver allows for the creation of rich internet applications (RIAs) that run seamlessly on various platforms, including web browsers, iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, and Linux. By leveraging WebAssembly and integrating with .NET MAUI Hybrid, OpenSilver ensures that applications can operate without the need for plugins, providing a streamlined development experience.
Key Features and Functionality:
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: Develop applications that run on web browsers and native platforms such as iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, and Linux from a single codebase.
- Language Support: Utilize C#, VB.NET, or F# for application development, catering to a broad range of developer preferences.
- XAML Integration: Design user interfaces using XAML, offering a familiar environment for developers experienced with WPF or Silverlight.
- Blazor Component Integration: Embed Blazor components directly within XAML applications, allowing the use of existing Blazor libraries without performance overhead.
- Development Tools: Benefit from tools like the XAML designer for Visual Studio Code and an AI-enhanced drag-and-drop UI designer, enhancing productivity and ease of use.
- Legacy Application Migration: Facilitate the migration of existing Silverlight and WPF applications to modern platforms, preserving the original look and functionality.
Primary Value and Problem Solved:
OpenSilver addresses the challenge of modernizing legacy Silverlight and WPF applications by providing a pathway to migrate these applications to contemporary web and mobile platforms without extensive rewrites. It offers developers a unified framework to build applications that are compatible across multiple platforms, reducing development time and costs. By supporting familiar languages and tools, OpenSilver minimizes the learning curve, enabling developers to leverage their existing skills and codebases effectively.