## Stripe Apps: Building and Distributing Applications on Stripe

This documentation set provides comprehensive guidance on developing, distributing, and managing applications within the Stripe ecosystem through **Stripe Apps**. It covers everything from the initial setup and core concepts to advanced features, UI development, and best practices for app design and user experience.

### Key Areas Covered:

*   **Getting Started with Stripe Apps:** Learn the fundamentals of app development, including building, previewing, and updating your first Stripe app.
*   **Core Concepts and Architecture:** Understand how Stripe Apps work, including their components, use cases, and the overall architecture.
*   **Building Your App:**
    *   **Backend Logic:** Implement server-side logic for secure integrations and webhook event handling.
    *   **User Interface (UI):** Design and build custom UIs within the Stripe Dashboard using React and the UI Extensions SDK. This includes detailed documentation on various UI components like `Accordion`, `Badge`, `Button`, `TextField`, and more.
    *   **Authentication:** Explore different API authentication methods, including OAuth 2.0 and Restricted API Keys (RAKs).
    *   **Data Management:** Securely store sensitive credentials and tokens using the Secret Store API.
*   **App Distribution and Management:**
    *   **Distribution Options:** Learn how to make your app publicly available on the Stripe App Marketplace or share it privately with your team.
    *   **Publishing and Review:** Understand the process of publishing your app, including app review requirements and quality standards.
    *   **Testing:** Set up external testing for your app before public release.
    *   **Versioning and Releases:** Manage your app's versions and releases effectively.
*   **App Enhancement and Features:**
    *   **Deep Links:** Create deep links to navigate users directly to specific sections of your app within the Dashboard.
    *   **Install Links:** Allow users to install your app outside of the Stripe App Marketplace.
    *   **Embedded Apps:** Integrate third-party Stripe Apps into your own platform.
    *   **Analytics:** Access and understand app analytics to monitor performance.
    *   **Sandbox Support:** Enable sandbox environments for testing and evaluation.
    *   **Local Network Access:** Configure local network access for app previewing.
*   **Migration:** Guidance on migrating legacy extensions to the modern Stripe Apps platform.
*   **Design and User Experience:**
    *   **Design Patterns:** Follow recommended design patterns for a consistent and intuitive user experience.
    *   **Styling:** Learn how to style your app to match Stripe's design language.
    *   **Onboarding:** Create effective onboarding flows to guide new users.
*   **Reference and Tools:**
    *   **App Manifest:** Understand the structure and fields of the app manifest file.
    *   **CLI Reference:** Utilize the Stripe Apps CLI for managing your app development lifecycle.
    *   **Permissions Reference:** Learn about available permissions for your app.
    *   **UI Extension SDK API:** Access detailed documentation for the UI extension SDK.
    *   **Viewports Reference:** Understand where your app's UI can be rendered within the Dashboard.

This documentation set is essential for developers looking to extend Stripe's functionality, integrate with its platform, and build custom solutions for businesses.