The .xap file stores a Silverlight application package. Silverlight enables rich media web content. The file format contains a manifest and may reference .DLLs. XAP files use ZIP compression.
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The .xap file stores a Silverlight application package. Silverlight enables rich media web content. The file format contains a manifest and may reference .DLLs. XAP files use ZIP compression.
Originally for Silverlight browser plug-ins, .xap files now also apply to Windows Phone apps. The package facilitates distribution and installation.
XAP was the standard for Windows Phone 7/8/8.1/10 apps. Windows Phone 8.1 replaced it with APPX to unify Windows Store and Phone platforms. Encryption means XAPs can’t open in regular ZIP programs. The file type associates with the MIME application/x-silverlight-app.
On Windows Phones, .xap deployment packaged apps. Along with Silverlight browser apps, it remains the default file format. A typical XAP contains: the AppManifest.xaml file, required DLLs. Microsoft Visual Studio enables development. An SD card can transfer .xap to install via Market app.