Support packaging and distribution of desktop applications
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- Dominant language
- TypeScript
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Description
Is your feature request related to a problem? Please describe.
Yes, currently there is no streamlined way to package and distribute desktop applications built with [specific framework/tool, if applicable, e.g., React, Electron, etc.]. Developers often need to manually handle OS-specific build configurations, bundling dependencies, and creating installers for each platform (Windows, macOS, Linux). This process is time-consuming, error-prone, and lacks automation, leading to inconsistent user experiences across platforms.
Describe the solution you'd like
I’d like to see built-in support for packaging and distributing desktop applications, including:
- Automated Build & Package Creation: Generate optimized installers (e.g., .exe, .dmg, .deb) for major platforms directly from the project.
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: Simplify dependency resolution and bundling for multi-platform builds.
- Installer Customization: Allow configuration of branding (icons, splash screens, etc.) and user permissions during installation.
- Distribution Options: Provide integrations with app stores (Microsoft Store, Mac App Store) or direct download links (e.g., GitHub Releases).
Describe alternatives you've considered
- Manual Workflows: Using third-party tools like electron-builder, NSIS, or Inno Setup, but they require significant manual setup and maintenance.
- Containerization: Leveraging Docker for lightweight desktop apps, but this adds unnecessary overhead for many use cases.
- Existing Frameworks: Adopting frameworks like Electron Forge or Quasar, but they lack seamless integration with the current ecosystem.
Additional context
This feature would benefit developers targeting end-users who expect professional, OS-compliant installers without needing to configure complex build pipelines. For example, a React-based desktop app could be shipped to users with a single command (npm run package). Screenshots of existing tools (e.g., Electron Builder’s config UI) could be referenced here if applicable.
Contributor guide
First steps
- Read the whole issue, then the project's contributing guide.
- Comment on the issue to say you are picking it up — it saves two people doing the same work.
- Fork the repository and make your change on a branch.
- Open a pull request that references the issue number.
Research direction
The issue names no repository files, entry points, or tests, so first inspect the project structure to determine whether a desktop application and packaging workflow already exist. Clarify the supported platforms, packaging tools, installer configuration, and distribution targets; done requires an agreed, implementable scope rather than the broad feature list currently provided.
Written by the indexing model from the issue text.
Assessment
- Tech stack
- electron, typescript
- Domain
- build-system, desktop, release
- Issue type
- Feature
- Difficulty
- 5/5
- Estimated time
- Over a week
- Activity status
- Stale
- Clarity
- Needs clarification
- Newbie friendliness
- 20/100