## Stripe Apps: Building and Managing Applications within Stripe

This documentation group provides a comprehensive guide to developing, deploying, and managing **Stripe Apps**. These apps allow developers to extend Stripe's functionality by embedding custom user interfaces directly into the Stripe Dashboard or orchestrating the Stripe API for various business needs.

### Key Areas Covered:

*   **Getting Started with Stripe Apps:** This section covers the fundamental steps to begin app development, including creating your first app and understanding the core concepts.
*   **App Development:** Dive deep into the technical aspects of building Stripe Apps, including:
    *   **Backend Logic:** Implementing server-side code to validate data, integrate with third-party systems, and handle webhooks.
    *   **User Interface (UI) Development:** Leveraging Stripe's UI Extensions SDK and UI toolkit to build custom interfaces within the Stripe Dashboard. This includes an extensive library of UI components like `Accordion`, `Badge`, `Button`, `TextField`, and many more, each with detailed prop and usage information.
    *   **API Authentication:** Understanding and implementing various authentication methods such as OAuth 2.0 and Restricted API Keys (RAKs) to securely interact with the Stripe API.
    *   **Authorization Flows:** Implementing secure authorization mechanisms like PKCE OAuth flows.
    *   **Data Handling:** Storing sensitive credentials and tokens securely using the Secret Store API.
*   **App Management and Deployment:** Learn how to manage your app's lifecycle:
    *   **Distribution Options:** Choosing between public and private app distribution, including publishing to the Stripe App Marketplace.
    *   **Testing and Previewing:** Enabling sandbox support, local network access for development, and external testing procedures.
    *   **Versioning and Releases:** Managing app versions and deploying new releases.
    *   **App Review:** Understanding the quality requirements and review process for publishing on the App Marketplace.
*   **Design and User Experience:** Focus on creating intuitive and effective user experiences:
    *   **Design Patterns:** Adhering to recommended design patterns for onboarding, navigation, state communication, and more.
    *   **Styling:** Applying consistent styling to match the Stripe Dashboard's look and feel.
    *   **Onboarding:** Guiding users through the initial setup and sign-in processes.
*   **Migration:** Guidance on migrating legacy extensions to the modern Stripe Apps platform.
*   **References:** Access to detailed references for the App Manifest, CLI, Permissions, and UI Extension SDK.

This documentation suite is essential for developers looking to integrate their services with Stripe or build custom solutions within the Stripe ecosystem.