News
Flexera Software Launches InstallShield 2016 to Transition Apps for Windows Store and Nano Server
September 2016 by Marc Jacob
Flexera Software announced the latest release of InstallShield®, the industry standard for development teams creating installers for Windows desktops, servers and cloud platforms. As highlighted in the keynote address at Microsoft Build 2016, InstallShield 2016 enables the transition to Microsoft’s Desktop Bridge (formerly known as Project Centennial) and Windows Server Apps (WSAs) with automatic compatibility tests and continuous build capabilities.
New Feature Highlights
• Tests Apps for Compatibility with UWP and WSA App Packages
Scans an InstallShield project in seconds and saves hours of investigative work by automatically identifying potential compatibility issues between the application and Microsoft’s Desktop Bridge and WSA packages.
• Creates UWP App Packages from MSI Projects
Prepares apps for the Windows Store and simplifies the software installation experience on Windows 10 by building UWP app packages from existing InstallShield projects. Builds Windows Installer and UWP app packages to support all deployment scenarios.
• Generates WSA App Packages from MSI Projects
Prepares apps for Nano Server and Windows Server 2016 deployments by building WSA packages from existing InstallShield projects, while installing apps on Windows Server 2008 and Windows Server 2012. Simultaneously creates WSA packages and Windows Installer packages to easily support all deployment circumstances.
• Combines Multiple UWP App Packages into One
Develops installations in modules for easier deployment and maintenance, and merges the components and dependencies at build time into a single UWP app package for the Windows Store. For direct distribution outside of the store, InstallShield 2016 bundles UWP app packages and other dependencies together with a Suite/Advanced UI installer.
• Maps MSI Table Relationships
Developers gain insight into how MSI tables are related for more precise editing and troubleshooting, and quickly see how those changes will impact the installer to reduce unintended consequences of manual table editing.
• Customises Windows 10 Tiles
Makes Windows Installer and UWP desktop applications “pop” on the Windows 10 Start screen with vibrant tiles for increased user engagement.
