open_in_newOriginal article
Microsoft Closes Request for Universal UI Builder: 'It's Baffling'

Microsoft Closes Request for Universal UI Builder: 'It's Baffling'

  • 24.03.2025 17:51
  • visualstudiomagazine.com
  • Keywords: danger, success

Microsoft closed a feedback request for a universal UI builder, frustrating developers who sought tools to streamline .NET app development. While Microsoft deemed it out of scope, alternatives like Uno Platform offer real-time design features as potential solutions.

Microsoft ProductsMSFTsentiment_dissatisfied

Estimated market influence

Microsoft

Microsoft

Negativesentiment_dissatisfied
Analyst rating: Strong buy

The company's decision to close the feedback request for a universal UI builder has caused frustration among developers and may impact their loyalty. Microsoft's focus on JavaScript and Python could lead to decreased revenue from C# and .NET, affecting Azure usage.

Uno Platform

Positivesentiment_satisfied
Analyst rating: N/A

Uno Platform introduced a feature that allows real-time UI design changes, enhancing developer productivity. This innovation positions them as an alternative solution to Microsoft's closed request, potentially attracting developers seeking efficient tools.

Context

Analysis of Microsoft's Decision to Close the Universal UI Builder Request

Overview

  • Date of Decision: 03/24/2025
  • Decision Impact: Microsoft closed a feedback request for a universal UI builder,引发 developer frustration and confusion.

Key Facts and Data Points

  • Jeff Jones' Proposal:

    • Suggested a universal UI builder to reduce development time, support costs, and drive Azure adoption.
    • Proposed tool would support multiple frameworks: WinForms, WPF, WinUI, MAUI, Blazor, and WinUI.
    • Filed in June 2024 as a detailed Developer Community post.

  • Microsoft's Response:

    • Closed the request on Friday, citing it was "out of scope" with their product direction.
    • Referenced posts: "Visual designer for WinUI 3" and ".NET MAUI."

  • Uno Platform Alternative:

    • Offers a core open-source platform with paid products.
    • Introduced a feature enabling real-time UI design changes in any IDE.
    • Mark Patterson highlighted Uno Platform as a superior solution, noting it achieved the desired functionality via "hot design."

Market and Business Implications

  • Developer Sentiment:

    • Microsoft's decision has angered developers who view it as abandoning their .NET-centric ecosystem.
    • Critics argue Microsoft is chasing JavaScript and Python developers at the expense of C# and .NET adoption.

  • Competitive Landscape:

    • Uno Platform positioned as a viable alternative, offering real-time UI design capabilities.
    • Microsoft's inaction may open opportunities for competitors to attract .NET developers.

  • Long-Term Effects:

    • Risk of reduced Azure adoption if developers shift to other platforms.
    • Potential decline in Visual Studio revenue due to developer dissatisfaction.

Strategic Considerations

  • Developer Trust:

    • Microsoft's decision could erode trust among long-time .NET developers.
    • Need to communicate clear product roadmaps and prioritize developer feedback.

  • Product Direction:

    • Focus on aligning resources with stated priorities (e.g., Azure, JavaScript frameworks).
    • Risk of losing market share in the UI development tools space.

  • Regulatory Impact:

    • No direct regulatory implications mentioned in the text.
    • However, competition in the software development tools market may attract antitrust scrutiny.

Conclusion

Microsoft's closure of the universal UI builder request highlights a critical juncture in their product strategy. While the decision aligns with current priorities, it risks alienating .NET developers and ceding ground to competitors like Uno Platform. Long-term success will depend on balancing innovation with developer needs while maintaining ecosystem cohesion.