Xojo

Xojo is a cross-platform development tool that enables developers to create native applications for Windows, macOS, Linux, web, iOS, and Android using a single codebase.

Designed for both beginners and seasoned developers, Xojo offers an object-oriented programming language reminiscent of Visual Basic, facilitating a smoother transition for those familiar with that environment.

The platform emphasizes rapid application development (RAD), allowing users to design, develop, and deploy applications efficiently.

Key Features

Cross-Platform Development: Write code once and deploy it across multiple platforms, including desktop, mobile, and web.​

Rich Standard Library: Access a comprehensive set of classes and modules covering graphics, database servers, internet protocols, and more.​

Drag-and-Drop User Interface: Design interfaces intuitively with a built-in library of over 40 user interface controls, ensuring native look and feel on each platform.​

Advanced Language Features: Supports inheritance, interfaces, polymorphism, and other object-oriented programming paradigms.​

Database Integration: Seamlessly connect to various databases, including SQLite, MySQL, PostgreSQL, and others.​

User Interface

Xojo's Integrated Development Environment (IDE) is designed for simplicity and efficiency. The central workspace provides a project navigator, code editor, and layout editor.

The drag-and-drop interface allows developers to place controls onto windows or web pages effortlessly. Property inspectors and event handlers are easily accessible, streamlining the development process.​

Installation and Setup

Download: Visit the official website and download the installer compatible with your operating system.​

Installation: Run the installer and follow on-screen prompts to complete the setup.​

Activation: Launch Xojo and sign in with your app account to activate the product.​

How to Use

Create a New Project: Open Xojo and select the type of application you wish to develop (e.g., Desktop, Web, Mobile).​

Design the Interface: Use the drag-and-drop editor to place controls (buttons, text fields, etc.) onto your application's windows or pages.​

Write Code: Assign functionality to controls by adding code to event handlers.​

Test and Debug: Utilize the built-in debugger to run and test your application.​

Build and Deploy: Once satisfied, build your application for the desired platforms and deploy accordingly.​

FAQ

Is Xojo suitable for beginners?
Yes, Xojo is designed to be user-friendly, making it accessible for beginners while offering advanced features for experienced developers.

Can I develop mobile applications with Xojo?
Yes, it supports native development for iOS and Android platforms.

What databases can Xojo connect to?
It can connect to SQLite, MySQL, PostgreSQL, and other databases.

Does Xojo support web application development?
Yes, it allows for the development of web applications using the same programming language and IDE.

What platforms can I develop on with Xojo?
You can develop on macOS, Windows, or Linux using Xojo.

Alternatives

Microsoft Visual Studio: A comprehensive IDE supporting multiple programming languages and platforms.​

Lazarus with Free Pascal: An open-source cross-platform IDE similar to Delphi, suitable for Pascal programming.​

Pricing

Free/Demo: Allows development and testing without the ability to build standalone applications.​

Desktop ($399) – Supports macOS, Windows, and Linux. Includes database access, multicore support, version control, and technical support.

Pro ($799) – Includes everything in Desktop plus Web, Mobile, service apps, consulting leads, and technical support.

Pro Plus ($1,999) – Includes everything in Pro plus top priority support, fast fixes, rapid report verification, and activation on 6 devices.

Lite ($99 each) – Build single-platform desktop apps (macOS, Windows, or Linux). Includes SQLite database support and version control.

Web ($399) – Build web apps with database access, deployment support, and technical support.

Mobile ($399) – Build iOS and Android apps with SQLite database support, native controls, and technical support.

System Requirements

Windows 11 or Windows 10, 4 GB RAM minimum (8 GB recommended).​

PROS

• Cross-platform development with a single codebase.​
• User-friendly IDE with drag-and-drop interface design.​
• Comprehensive standard library and database support.​

CONS

• Some advanced features may be limited compared to other IDEs.​
• Licensing can be costly for individual developers.​

Conclusion

Xojo stands out as a versatile tool for cross-platform application development, catering to both novices and seasoned developers. Its intuitive IDE, combined with a powerful programming language, facilitates rapid development and deployment across various platforms.

Note: Limited functionality in the demo version.

Also Available: Download Xojo for Mac