## Stripe Apps Documentation

This documentation set focuses on the Stripe Apps platform, which allows developers to extend Stripe's functionality by building custom applications that can be integrated directly into the Stripe Dashboard or published on the Stripe App Marketplace.

The core of Stripe Apps development revolves around creating applications with both frontend (UI extensions) and backend components, or as backend-only services. Key aspects covered include:

*   **Core Concepts:** Understanding how Stripe Apps work, their basic components, and different app types (backend, frontend, full-stack).
*   **Development Workflow:** Getting started with app creation, using the Stripe CLI, enabling local network access for previewing, and handling different operational modes (live vs. sandbox).
*   **API and Authentication:** Methods for authenticating API requests, including OAuth 2.0 and Restricted API Keys (RAKs), and managing API access.
*   **Building the UI:** Utilizing the Stripe UI Extension SDK and its comprehensive library of UI components to create custom interfaces within the Stripe Dashboard. This includes guidance on component hierarchy, styling, and design patterns.
*   **Backend Logic:** Implementing server-side logic for data processing, third-party integrations, and handling webhooks.
*   **Distribution and Deployment:** Options for distributing apps, including private installation and publishing on the Stripe App Marketplace, along with app review requirements.
*   **Migration:** Guidance on migrating legacy extensions to the new Stripe Apps platform.
*   **Testing and Analytics:** Strategies for testing apps externally and accessing app analytics to understand user engagement.
*   **Design Patterns and Best Practices:** Recommended patterns for onboarding, navigation, state management, and overall user experience to ensure consistency and quality.

This documentation aims to guide developers through the entire lifecycle of building, deploying, and managing Stripe Apps.