Power Apps Test Engine Overview (Preview)
The Power Apps Test Engine is an open-source automated testing framework designed to enhance the reliability and efficiency of Power Apps canvas applications. It builds upon the capabilities of Test Studio but takes a more advanced approach by integrating with the Playwright browser testing platform.
Key Features of Power Apps Test Engine
1. Automated Testing for Canvas Apps
The Test Engine enables developers to create automated tests for Power Apps canvas applications, ensuring that updates do not disrupt the app experience.
2. Power Fx-Based Test Authoring
Instead of writing complex scripts in C# or JavaScript, tests are authored using Power Fx, the low-code language of Power Platform. Tests are defined in YAML files, making them easy to read and maintain.
3. Connector Mocking
Test Engine allows developers to define mock responses for connectors, enabling apps to be tested without relying on external APIs. This is useful for scenarios where API calls might have unintended side effects.
4. Screenshot and Video Recording
The Test Engine introduces a Screenshot() function, allowing testers to capture the app state at any point during execution. Additionally, it supports video recording to help diagnose failed test cases.
5. Open-Source and Extensible
The Test Engine is available as an open-source project on GitHub, allowing developers to contribute and extend its capabilities. It supports integration with CI/CD pipelines like GitHub Actions and Azure DevOps.
6. DOM Abstraction for Testing
Unlike traditional UI testing frameworks, Test Engine abstracts the DOM structure, allowing tests to reference control names defined at design time rather than relying on HTML elements.
7. Managed Extensibility Framework (MEF)
Test Engine supports MEF interfaces, enabling authentication providers and Power Fx actions to be extended using custom assemblies.
Getting Started with Power Apps Test Engine
Step 1: Install Prerequisites
- Install .NET Core 8.0.x SDK
- Ensure PowerShell is installed
- Clone the Test Engine repository from GitHub
Step 2: Build and Run Tests
- Use PowerShell commands to build the Test Engine executable
- Define test cases using Power Fx in YAML format
- Execute tests locally or integrate them into CI/CD workflows
Step 3: Review Test Results
- Analyze screenshots and video recordings
- Validate test assertions using Power Fx functions
- Iterate and refine test cases for better coverage
Why Use Power Apps Test Engine?
✅ Improves App Reliability – Ensures that updates do not break functionality
✅ Reduces Manual Testing Effort – Automates repetitive test scenarios
✅ Enhances CI/CD Integration – Supports DevOps workflows for continuous testing
✅ Empowers Low-Code Developers – Uses Power Fx for easy test authoring
For more details, check out the official Power Apps Test Engine documentation and GitHub repository.
Hope you enjoy the session.
Please leave a comment below if you have any further questions.
Happy Sharing !!!
Keep Learning | Spread Knowledge | Stay blessed |
Top comments (0)