Before we begin, let’s give the ChatGPT answer as to why you need to upgrade your Xamarin App in 2024 to a MAUI app ready for 2025.
“Xamarin apps will not be taken off the App Stores directly; however, Microsoft has announced the end of support for Xamarin-based development with the transition to .NET MAUI (Multi-platform App UI). Here’s what this means for Xamarin apps:
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End of Support: Microsoft ended support for Xamarin.Forms on May 1, 2024. After this date, there will be no more updates, including security patches, for Xamarin.Forms. However, this doesn’t mean that existing Xamarin apps will be immediately removed from app stores like the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
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Existing Apps: Xamarin apps that are already published on the App Stores will continue to function and be available as long as they are compatible with the latest OS versions and meet the app store policies. However, developers are encouraged to migrate to .NET MAUI to ensure continued support and compatibility with future OS updates.
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New Submissions and Updates: While Xamarin apps can still be updated and resubmitted to the app stores after the end of support, it’s important to note that as the underlying technologies evolve, maintaining these apps may become increasingly difficult. Developers may eventually face issues with compatibility or app store compliance, which could impact their ability to update or maintain these apps.
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Recommendation: Microsoft strongly recommends migrating Xamarin projects to .NET MAUI, as it provides a more modern and supported framework for cross-platform development. .NET MAUI is the evolution of Xamarin.Forms and offers improved performance, better tooling, and long-term support.
In summary, while Xamarin apps won’t be removed from the App Stores on a specific date, developers should plan to migrate to .NET MAUI to ensure continued support and compatibility.“
Ok, so the apps aren’t likely to come straight off the stores but what is likely to happen to Xamarin Apps if you don’t get them upgraded NOW! Over the last two years both Google and Apple have been increasing their efforts to ensure their stores aren’t filled with unmaintained redundant apps. One of the ways they do this is to enforce minimum SDK versions to keep apps up to date with their operating systems. This happens one or two times a year. As a result we are seeing apps being taken off the stores in an increased frequency so we are strongly advising our clients to update their Xamarin apps to MAUI ASAP!
If you would like to know more about what is involved in getting your app migrated over to MAUI please get in touch with us using our contact page and we’d be happy to assist you.