Xamarin.Forms user interfaces are rendered using the native controls of the target platform, allowing Xamarin.Forms applications to retain the appropriate look and feel for each platform. Effects allow the native controls on each platform to be customized without having to resort to a custom renderer implementation.

Introduction to Effects

Effects allow the native controls on each platform to be customized, and are typically used for small styling changes. This article provides an introduction to effects, outlines the boundary between effects and custom renderers, and describes the PlatformEffect class.

Creating an Effect

Effects simplify the customization of a control. This article demonstrates how to create an effect that changes the background color of the Entry control when the control gains focus.

Passing Parameters to an Effect

Creating an effect that's configured through parameters enables the effect to be reused. These articles demonstrate using properties to pass parameters to an effect, and changing a parameter at runtime.

Invoking Events from an Effect

Effects can invoke events. This article shows how to create an event that implements low-level multi-touch finger tracking and signals an application for touch presses, moves, and releases.