Is there a way to create executable file for UWP[C++/xaml] application?

Question

I am trying to find a way to provide.exe (executable) file without side-loading the application or going through microsoft app store publishing process.

Also if its not possible, which type of App platform provide this facility.

Answer 1

It's not possible for UWP applications. You must generate an app package and install it via side-loading (if you don't want to go through the Store). You could create a WPF application (or many other types of applications, for that matter) to have an executable at the end of the compilation.

Answer 2

It is possible see this Microsoft article on vcvarsall.bat

https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/cpp/build/building-on-the-command-line?view=msvc-170

I wondered and found it. I also noticed in the App.g.hpp file of my program near the bottom the file a disabled code can be set in properties to allow for main() with args of course. This link shows vcvarsall.bat for Visual Studio 2019 but the file locations are the same for Visual Studio 2022 except use Program Files instead of Program Files (x86) for Visual Studio 2019.