Microsoft continues to redefine the landscape of code editing with the release of Visual Studio Code 1.85, the November 2023 edition. This update brings forth groundbreaking features, notably the introduction of floating editor windows and advanced visualization of JavaScript heap snapshots.
Released on December 7, Visual Studio Code 1.85 caters to developers on Windows, Linux, and Mac, offering a versatile platform for streamlined coding experiences. The spotlight feature, floating editor windows, empowers developers to detach editors from the main window, ushering in a new era of multitasking and personalized workspace management. The ability to seamlessly synchronize changes across multiple editor windows enhances collaboration and flexibility.
A significant addition is the visualization of V8 heap snapshots, providing developers with deeper insights into memory usage. The .heapsnapshot files can now be explored in a tabular view or through a graphical representation of memory object retainers. This feature proves invaluable for debugging JavaScript code, allowing developers to capture heap snapshots using the Memory tab in browser DevTools.
Building on the momentum of Visual Studio Code 1.84, which introduced audio cues, version 1.85 incorporates various improvements:
- Enhanced keyboard experience with tooltips displayed on focus for items like Activity Bar and Status Bar.
- Interactive types in JavaScript and TypeScript inlay hints.
- Customizable auto-update options for extensions.
- Improved navigation of Python projects’ type relationships with the Pylance language server.
- Introduction of the Incoming/Outgoing section in the Source Control panel, showcasing changes in the current branch compared to its remote.
- Persistence of inline chat prompt history for GitHub Copilot AI tool across VS Code sessions.
- Extension of Sticky Scroll to all tree views for smoother navigation through project trees (in preview).
- Preview of the multi-diff editor, enabling users to view changes in multiple files in a single scrollable view.
Explore the evolving landscape of Visual Studio Code as it continues to empower developers with cutting-edge features, fostering an environment of innovation and efficiency in code development.