Microsoft.UI.Xaml 2.8 represents the last major 2.x release before the transition to the Windows App SDK. It decouples XAML UI framework from the OS, enabling modern controls and styling on Windows 10, version 1809 and later, without requiring the latest OS build. It introduces key performance improvements, new controls, and better Win32 interop.

: Users can also attempt to install or upgrade the framework using the Windows Package Manager with the command winget install Microsoft.UI.Xaml.2.8 . WinUI 2 vs. WinUI 3