As businesses demand smarter, scalable apps across platforms, mobile development tools are evolving rapidly. If you’re still using Xamarin, now is the time to move forward. .NET MAUI offers the future of cross-platform app development. It brings better performance, scalability, and platform reach.
At Algoworks, we help businesses define, build, and run future-ready applications. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps for migrating from Xamarin to .NET MAUI.
Xamarin vs. .NET MAUI: Understanding the Shift
Xamarin helped developers build apps with C#. It allowed code sharing across iOS, Android, and Windows. It reduced duplication and sped up app launches. But modern apps need more unified, scalable frameworks.
.NET MAUI (Multi-platform App UI) extends Xamarin’s capabilities. It adds support for macOS and Windows. You can manage everything from a single codebase. Built on .NET 6+, MAUI allows teams to build secure, high-performance apps faster with a broader reach.
Why Migrate to .NET MAUI Now?
Migrating now ensures your apps stay competitive, secure, and future-ready. Here’s why:
- Unified Codebase: Build for Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS using a single project structure.
- Modern Performance: Achieve native performance with deep .NET integration.
- Future-Ready Architecture: Stay updated with continuous support from Microsoft’s ecosystem.
At Algoworks, our Mobile App Development Services focus on engineering solutions that are built for business and people.
Xamarin to .NET MAUI Migration: Practical Checklist
A smooth migration minimizes risks. Follow this checklist to ensure success:
- Assess Application Readiness: Review existing APIs, libraries, and platform-specific code.
- Target All Platforms: Decide if you need mobile-only or full cross-platform reach.
- Upgrade to .NET 6 or Later: Make sure your backend aligns with MAUI’s foundation.
- Reimagine Your UI: Adapt your designs to MAUI’s shared UI layer.
- Evaluate Dependencies: Identify incompatible libraries and plan replacements.
- Plan Incremental Testing: Test at each stage and automate where possible.
- Update CI/CD Pipelines: Modernize deployment workflows to align with MAUI.
How to Migrate from Xamarin to .NET MAUI
Migrating from Xamarin to .NET MAUI requires careful planning, technical precision, and testing. Consider this migration an opportunity to improve your app’s performance, scalability, and maintainability.
Here’s the migration journey broken down:
1. Analyze the Existing Xamarin App
Start with a detailed audit of your Xamarin app. This involves:
- Listing all features and platform-specific functionalities.
- Identifying third-party libraries, plugins, and custom components.
- Mapping out critical dependencies and integrations.
This helps anticipate migration challenges and prioritize important features.
2. Prepare Your Development Environment
Before you start coding, set up a solid, updated development environment:
- Install Visual Studio 2022 or later with .NET MAUI support.
- Ensure build servers and CI/CD pipelines are ready for .NET 6+ projects.
- Familiarize your team with MAUI’s project structure, APIs, and best practices.
A prepared environment helps avoid roadblocks during migration.
3. Upgrade Backend and Shared Code to .NET 6+
.NET MAUI requires apps to be aligned with .NET 6 or later. Start by:
- Migrating your app’s shared logic, models, and services.
- Updating backend integrations if they use older .NET Framework components.
- Ensuring non-UI code compiles cleanly and passes unit tests.
This upgrade lays the foundation for MAUI migration.
4. Transition to the New MAUI Project Structure
.NET MAUI uses a single project to target multiple platforms. Xamarin used platform-specific projects. To transition:
- Create a new .NET MAUI project.
- Organize code into platform-specific folders.
- Centralize resources like images and fonts using MAUI’s new resource management system.
This step streamlines future development and maintenance.
5. Refactor and Adapt the User Interface
MAUI’s UI system is more flexible and unified. However, you can’t directly copy Xamarin.Forms XAML. To transition:
- Redesign layouts using MAUI controls and layouts.
- Replace Xamarin elements with MAUI equivalents.
- Create responsive UIs that scale across mobile, tablet, and desktop.
A modern, adaptive UI improves the user experience.
6. Address Third-Party Libraries and Dependencies
Some Xamarin libraries may not work in .NET MAUI. To address this:
- Find updated versions or replacements for incompatible libraries.
- Refactor custom code where third-party replacements aren’t available.
- Thoroughly test each integration before proceeding.
Effective dependency management ensures long-term app stability.
7. Implement Rigorous Testing
Testing should be continuous throughout migration. Here’s what to do:
- Perform functional testing across all target platforms.
- Profile app performance to catch regressions early.
- Use automated testing where possible to validate app behavior.
Thorough testing reduces risks post-deployment.
8. Modernize Deployment Pipelines
MAUI’s build and deployment processes differ from Xamarin’s. To modernize your CI/CD pipelines:
- Build multi-targeted apps efficiently.
- Meet new platform requirements.
- Automate testing and release workflows.
A streamlined pipeline ensures faster delivery cycles.
9. Monitor, Optimize, and Support
Once deployed, monitor app performance across devices and OS. Act on user feedback quickly. Plan regular updates to keep up with MAUI’s improvements. Continuous optimization keeps your app competitive and ready for the future.
Key Business Benefits of Migrating to .NET MAUI
Migrating to MAUI brings both technical and business advantages:
- Single Codebase Efficiency: Reduce complexity and operational costs.
- Enhanced Performance: Enjoy native-level speed and resource optimization.
- Better Scalability: Expand seamlessly into desktop platforms without rebuilding.
- Security and Support: Benefit from Microsoft’s security patches and performance upgrades.
Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Migration can present challenges like legacy code issues or incompatible libraries. Here’s how to handle them:
- Prioritize mission-critical features early in the process.
- Identify and replace dependencies proactively.
- Use expert engineering services to avoid costly mistakes.
At Algoworks, successful deliveries show our expertise in complex digital transformation projects.
Ready to Future-Proof Your Mobile Applications?
Migrating from Xamarin to .NET MAUI isn’t just about adopting a new framework. It’s about ensuring your app stays competitive. At Algoworks, we specialize in mobile app modernization, cross-platform engineering, and long-term app support.
Contact our Xamarin to .NET MAUI migration experts today. Let’s build a smarter, scalable future for your business.
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