Layout / The visual dictionary
App shell.
The persistent frame that surrounds an application's changing content.
Also calledapplication frameapplication shell
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UI illustrationSee it in context
Workspace Profile
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What it is
The persistent frame that surrounds an application's changing content. Keep shared navigation, identity, and global actions stable while destination content changes.
When to use it
Use it to establish a coherent structure across multiple screens.
Know the difference
The app shell is the surrounding frame; content area is the region it contains.
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Across platforms
WebiOSiPadOSAndroidmacOSWindowsLinux
Web · iOS · iPadOS · Android · macOS · Windows · Linux
A web shell often combines header and navigation; native shells use platform bars and window chrome.
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Go to the source
Primary documentation for the pattern and its platform conventions.