Visual Studio Code 1.100 Release Notes
Visual Studio Code 1.100, released on May 8, brings meaningful improvements to AI chat and AI-powered code editing. This update, also known as the April 2025 release, is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux at code.visualstudio.com.
Customize AI Chat With Markdown-Based Instructions and Prompts
Developers can now personalize their AI chat experience by using Markdown-based instruction and prompt files. Instruction files define coding practices, preferred technologies, project details, and other guidelines. Prompt files create reusable chat requests for frequent tasks, such as generating front-end components. This flexibility allows different setups per programming language or project type, making AI chat more relevant and efficient.
Faster AI-Powered Code Editing in Agent Mode
This release enhances AI-assisted code editing speed, especially with large files. It adds support for OpenAI’s apply patch editing format and Anthropic’s replace string tool. OpenAI’s update is enabled by default in VS Code Insiders and is rolling out to the Stable version. Anthropic’s tool is available to all users, improving editing responsiveness and accuracy.
Next Edit Suggestions Get Smarter and Quicker
Next Edit Suggestions now use a new model that offers faster and more context-aware code recommendations. The suggestions appear with lower latency and better reflect recent changes. Additionally, NES can automatically suggest missing import statements in JavaScript and TypeScript files, streamlining common development tasks.
Stronger Security Measures
- VS Code 1.100 provides “Learn More” links when an extension is flagged as malicious. These links lead to GitHub issues or documentation explaining the security concerns, helping developers make informed decisions.
- Extension signature verification is now mandatory on all platforms, including Linux. This change ensures all installed extensions are properly validated, enhancing overall security.
User Interface Enhancements for Floating Windows
Two new modes for floating windows improve multi-window workflows:
- Compact mode: hides certain UI elements to maximize content space.
- Always-on-top mode: keeps the floating window above all others until exited.
Improvements in Source Control and Debugging
- Source Control: Quick diff editor decorations now show staged changes directly within the editor, removing the need to open the Source Control view.
- Debugging: A new context menu is available in the disassembly view, making debugging more accessible.
Context on Previous Releases
Version 1.100 follows VS Code 1.99, released in early April, which improved Copilot Chat and agent mode, and introduced Next Edit Suggestions. Subsequent point releases addressed bugs and security fixes.
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