Key insights

• Virtual React Components in Power Apps enhance application functionality and user experience, offering developers a chance to expand their toolkit within the Power Platform ecosystem.


• The session at the Global Power Platform Bootcamp 2025 covers setting up the development environment, coding React components, and integrating them into Power Apps.


• Key Benefits of using Virtual React Components include unified styling with Fluent UI, enhanced performance through shared platform libraries, and simplified development without needing to package individual libraries.


• To get started, developers should initialize a new React component using the Power Apps CLI command:
  pac pcf init --name ReactSample --namespace SampleNamespace --template field --framework react


• The configuration involves updating the ControlManifest.Input.xml file to specify virtual control type and required platform libraries like React and Fluent.


• Developers can build and test their components by implementing logic in index.tsx and compiling with:
  npm install
  npm run build

Mastering Virtual React Components in Power Apps: Insights from the Global Power Platform Bootcamp 2025

In an era where application development is rapidly evolving, staying updated with the latest tools and technologies is crucial for developers. The Global Power Platform Bootcamp 2025 provided an excellent opportunity for developers to enhance their skills, particularly in integrating Virtual React Components within Power Apps. Hosted by Microsoft Business Applications MVP, Clevin Fernandez, this session offered a comprehensive exploration of how React can be effectively utilized in Power Apps to build dynamic and efficient applications. This article delves into the key aspects of the session, highlighting the benefits, challenges, and best practices shared during the event.

Introduction to Virtual React Components in Power Apps

The session began with an introduction to the concept of Virtual React Components in Power Apps. These components are designed to improve the functionality and user experience of applications by leveraging the power of React, a popular JavaScript library for building user interfaces. The integration of React within Power Apps allows developers to create more interactive and responsive applications, enhancing both performance and visual appeal. Moreover, the introduction of React and Fluent-based virtual code components in Power Apps marks a significant advancement in the development landscape. By utilizing shared platform libraries, developers can achieve a unified styling across applications, leading to a consistent look and feel. This not only enhances the user experience but also simplifies the development process by reducing the need for isolated React trees and decreasing the bundle size of components.

Setting Up the Development Environment

One of the critical steps in mastering Virtual React Components is setting up the development environment correctly. During the session, Clevin Fernandez provided a step-by-step guide on how to initialize a new React component using the Power Apps CLI. This involves creating a new project with the necessary files and configurations, ensuring that developers have a solid foundation to build upon. The configuration of the ControlManifest.Input.xml file is another essential aspect of setting up the environment. By updating the control-type attribute to virtual and specifying the required platform libraries, developers can ensure that their components utilize the shared React and Fluent libraries provided by the platform. This setup not only streamlines the development process but also enhances the performance of the applications.

Developing and Integrating React Components

Once the development environment is set up, the next step is to develop and integrate React components within Power Apps. The session provided valuable insights into implementing component logic in index.tsx, focusing on returning React elements without directly manipulating the DOM. This approach allows the platform to manage rendering, resulting in a more seamless integration of components. Clevin Fernandez also demonstrated how to build and test the components using npm commands. By compiling the component and testing it within the Power Apps environment, developers can ensure that their components function correctly and meet the desired performance standards. This hands-on approach not only reinforces the theoretical knowledge but also provides practical experience in working with Virtual React Components.

Tools and Resources for Power Platform Development

To support developers in their journey of mastering Virtual React Components, the session highlighted various tools and resources available for Power Platform development. These resources include documentation, tutorials, and community forums where developers can seek guidance and share their experiences. By leveraging these resources, developers can stay updated with the latest trends and best practices in Power Apps development. Additionally, the session emphasized the importance of continuous learning and collaboration within the developer community. By participating in events like the Global Power Platform Bootcamp and engaging with fellow developers, individuals can expand their knowledge and skills, ultimately contributing to the growth and innovation of the Power Platform ecosystem.

Best Practices and Key Takeaways

As the session concluded, Clevin Fernandez shared several best practices for using React in Power Apps. These practices include focusing on component reusability, optimizing performance through efficient coding techniques, and maintaining a consistent styling across applications. By adhering to these best practices, developers can create applications that are not only visually appealing but also highly functional and efficient. The key takeaways from the session underscore the significance of embracing Virtual React Components in Power Apps. By leveraging the power of shared platform libraries, developers can create applications that are more efficient, maintainable, and visually consistent. This approach not only enhances the user experience but also simplifies the development process, allowing developers to focus on building innovative solutions.

Interactive Q&A and Wrap-Up

The session concluded with an interactive Q&A segment, where participants had the opportunity to engage with Power Platform experts and gain insights into specific challenges and solutions. This interactive format allowed for a deeper understanding of the topics discussed and provided valuable feedback for both the presenters and attendees. In summary, the Global Power Platform Bootcamp 2025 offered a comprehensive exploration of Virtual React Components in Power Apps. Through hands-on demonstrations, expert coding tips, and practical advice, developers gained valuable insights into integrating React within Power Apps. By embracing these advancements, developers can enhance their toolkit and contribute to the growth and innovation of the Power Platform ecosystem.

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