Compact Framework, also known as .NET Compact Framework, is a software development framework created by Microsoft. It is specifically designed for building applications that run on devices with limited resources, such as Windows Mobile devices and embedded systems. The Compact Framework provides a subset of the functionality found in the full .NET Framework, focusing on essential components for mobile development. It supports multiple programming languages, including C# and Visual Basic, and offers a range of APIs and libraries for building mobile applications. With its compact size and optimized performance, the Compact Framework enables developers to create efficient and feature-rich applications for handheld devices, catering to the unique requirements of the mobile environment.