## Building Stripe Apps

This documentation group provides comprehensive guidance on developing and integrating applications with Stripe. It covers the entire lifecycle of building a Stripe App, from initial setup and authentication to UI development, backend logic, distribution, and ongoing management.

### Key Areas Covered:

*   **Getting Started:** Learn the fundamentals of Stripe App development, including creating your first app and understanding its core components.
*   **App Architecture:** Explore different app types (backend, frontend, full-stack) and how to structure your applications.
*   **Authentication and Authorization:** Understand how to secure your app using various authentication methods like OAuth 2.0 and Restricted API Keys.
*   **UI Development:** Discover how to build custom user interfaces within the Stripe Dashboard using the UI Extensions SDK and a rich set of UI components.
*   **Backend Logic:** Learn how to implement server-side logic to integrate with third-party systems, handle webhooks, and automate workflows.
*   **Data Management:** Understand how to securely store sensitive data like credentials using the Secret Store API.
*   **Testing and Debugging:** Find resources on enabling sandbox support, local network access, and UI testing.
*   **Distribution and Publishing:** Learn how to distribute your app to your team or publish it on the Stripe App Marketplace, including app review requirements.
*   **Migration:** Get guidance on migrating legacy extensions to the modern Stripe Apps platform.
*   **Design and Best Practices:** Follow recommended design patterns and styling guidelines to create a consistent and user-friendly experience.
*   **Reference Materials:** Access detailed references for the App Manifest, CLI, permissions, and UI extension SDK.

### Core Concepts:

*   **Stripe Apps:** The primary platform for building integrations and custom UIs within the Stripe Dashboard.
*   **UI Extensions:** The mechanism for rendering custom user interfaces within the Stripe Dashboard.
*   **App Manifest (`stripe-app.json`):** A configuration file that describes how your app integrates with Stripe.
*   **API Authentication:** Methods for your app to authenticate requests to the Stripe API on behalf of users.
*   **Secret Store API:** A secure way to store sensitive credentials and tokens.
*   **Design Patterns:** Recommended approaches for common UI and UX scenarios within Stripe Apps.

This documentation is essential for developers looking to extend Stripe's functionality, integrate with other services, or build custom solutions for their Stripe accounts.