Visual Studio Code Adds Modern UI and New Agent Tools

Visual Studio Code 1.129 is now available with an experimental Modern UI, a redesigned editor panel for the Agents window, and support for running terminal commands through chat.

Microsoft released the weekly update shortly after Visual Studio Code 1.128. Existing users should receive version 1.129 automatically, while new users can download it manually from the Visual Studio Code website.

Visual Studio Code Tests a Modern UI

Visual Studio Code 1.129 introduces an experimental interface that changes the appearance of the main workbench.

The Modern UI displays the sidebars and bottom panel as floating cards. Microsoft has also added rounded corners and visible gaps between interface sections.

These changes bring the main Visual Studio Code interface closer to the newer design used in the Agents window.

Users can activate the preview in the Workbench settings by enabling Experimental: Modern UI.

Since Microsoft still labels the feature as experimental, its appearance and behavior may change in future releases.

Agents Window Gets a New Editor Panel

Microsoft has also introduced an experimental editor panel for the Agents window.

The Agents window usually places the AI conversation next to a separate area that shows generated files, code changes, and other details. The new design combines the editor and details section into one docked pane.

Both areas now share the same tab bar. This layout should make it easier to switch between files, review generated changes, and inspect an agent’s work without moving between separate interface sections.

The updated panel also makes the Agents window feel more like the standard Visual Studio Code editor.

Run Terminal Commands From Chat

Visual Studio Code 1.129 allows users to run terminal commands directly from chat messages.

Users can execute a command by placing an exclamation mark at the beginning of a chat message. For example, entering a supported command with the prefix tells Visual Studio Code to run it in the terminal.

The feature works in agent host sessions inside the main editor. Microsoft has also enabled it in the separate Agents window.

This option can reduce the need to switch between chat and the integrated terminal while working with coding agents.

Visual Studio Code 1.129 Availability

Visual Studio Code should automatically download and install version 1.129 for existing users who have automatic updates enabled.

Users can also check for updates from within the application or install the latest version manually from the official Visual Studio Code website.

In other Microsoft news, Windows 11 has received a new automatic SSO policy for managed devices, while Microsoft has revoked older bootloaders that attackers could use to bypass Secure Boot.