I know this specific subject died down significantly after the "death" of the Windows Mobile Platform. However, I am here to encourage Logos/Faithlife to convert all their win32 development to UWP development.
Why? The future of computing. Microsoft spent last week showing off their current products while giving the world a sneak peek at the prospect of computing. They demonstrated two devices that will be part of their future development, Neo and Duo. While Duo will be excellent running Logos on the Andriod App, Neo does not share the same fate. Also, Neo is going to be the more attractive device for Pastors on the go. Why? It has two 9 inch screens.
One use case that comes to mind is that the dual screens can provide the pastor with his sermon notes on one side of the device, and the other can have the Bible passage in his preferred translation. We are talking about a significant opportunity to improve the user experience when preaching.
Second, the device serves as a laptop in a small form factor. Think of an iPad that can get work done because of a touch screen trackpad plus a more traditional keyboard that can magnetically connect to the device — having a full Logos experience. It can allow the pastor to write their complete sermon on the device. Also, if needed, you can use a mouse and the keyboard while using both screens.
Third, Logos, except for the web app, will not be capable of running smoothly on Neo's new Windows 10X platform. The new platform, which is the future of Windows, will not be a win32 first machine. Instead, it is a UWP first machine. While it can run win32 in emulation mode, it is best suited for the native UWP apps being developed for the device. Faithlife, please move to this platform, it is vital for maximizing the productivity of your faithful users.
Fourth, Microsoft is showing that they are serious about being a mobile-first company. As someone who has used the Surface devices on a surface, I can say from personal experience that Faithlife/Logos has dropped the ball with the touch and tablet interface modes. We deserve better, and Logos must be better. Building Logos on UWP will provide the new touch interface and controls surface users deserve.
Fifth, if Logos builds the UWP app, it will allow pastors to use fewer devices in their workflow. It would let the Surface Pro devices to be entirely usable as both their PC for writing and research and presenting their sermons.
Sixth, a UWP app would be permitted in the Windows Store on the desktop, making it safer and more accessible to download the app for devices.
Seventh, a UWP app can be easily adjusted to be used on Xbox, HoloLens (Future is bright with this technology), Hub, Neo, and all PCs.
Eighth, (currently an Apple device user: iPad Pro, iPhone, Apple Watch, Apple TV, Macbook Pro) I believe Microsoft has a better feel for the future of computing than Apple.
There is a little less than a year until the expected full release of the Surface Neo. I want to know: Will Faithlife be ready for what the future holds?
What are your thoughts? Do you have a desire to see Faithlife and Logos step up and move their development to the future platform for PC (UWP)? Would love to hear your thoughts community!
