Microsoft has released the source code of Windows Library for JavaScript (WinJS) as an open source project at the Build conference 2014.
The code is now available via the GitHib site and is released under the Apache 2.0 license. The company is going cross-platform as WinJS is being enabled for non-Windows devices and browsers also.
“WinJS is a JavaScript library that was first created for Windows 8 to enable first class, native-quality experiences in Windows Runtime apps using familiar web technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript,” wrote Maria Kang, Program Manager, Windows Ecosystem and Frameworks Team.
“The first version of WinJS provided high-quality infrastructure including page controls, promises, and data-binding. It also offered polished UI capabilities like virtualised collections and high performance controls such as ListView, FlipView, and semantic zoom.”
Microsoft claims that the source code can be used to develop HTML-based apps for web browsers such as Internet Explorer, Chrome and Firefox along with devices that run Windows, iOS and Android.
Kang explains “Extending WinJS to other browsers and devices beyond Windows further extends their reach and allows them to bring the personality of Windows apps to the web without rewriting code or learning new skills.”
Back in 2011, the company first released this library as another source for developers to build interfaces for its new Windows 8 platforms, along with the XAML (Extensible Application Markup Language).
Apart from the release of WinJS, Microsoft has also unveiled a series of projects such as Windows Universal apps, Cortana – a voice-activated smartphone personal assistant as a part of the Windows Phone 8.1 update.
The company is also offering Windows for free for manufacturers of smartphones and tablets with screen sizes less than 9-inch.
Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella said in a keynote at the conference, “One thing we are doing is making sure the opportunity for you as developers across the Windows family is expanding.”
