Introduction
Visual Studio Code (VS Code) just took a big step toward openness. Microsoft has re-licensed the editor under MIT, removed proprietary bits, and doubled down on AI features—all in the name of transparency. Whether you’re a hobbyist, a seasoned developer, or part of a large team, this move makes it easier to inspect, extend, and trust your editor.
Body
1. The Road to True Open Source
VS Code has long been “open source” in spirit. Its core code lived on GitHub under the MIT license, but the official builds included Microsoft-owned trademarks and proprietary telemetry. Today, Microsoft stripped out those closed bits. The result: an official VS Code build that anyone can clone, fork, modify, and redistribute without extra legal hurdles.
• A Single License: The entire codebase now runs under MIT.
• No Hidden Assets: Trademarks, icons, fonts, and telemetry calls tied to Microsoft servers are out.
• Community Builds: Vendors and users alike can ship custom flavors of VS Code without waiting for Microsoft’s blessing.
2. AI Built Right In
While open source was the headline, AI is the engine under the hood. VS Code’s new build weaves in smart features designed to help you code faster and with fewer mistakes.
• IntelliSense on Steroids: Beyond simple code completion, AI helps you spot bugs, suggest refactors, and fill in entire code snippets.
• Chat and Code Generation: A built-in chat pane lets you ask questions about your code, request examples, or get documentation links without leaving the editor.
• Local and Remote AI Models: You can hook up cloud-based AI services or run models on your machine. Microsoft supports major providers and frameworks to keep your data where you want it.
3. Respecting Your Privacy
Transparency isn’t just about license text. It’s about knowing what your editor does behind the scenes.
• Opt-In Telemetry: VS Code now ships with telemetry turned off by default. If you choose to share usage data, you’ll know exactly what’s sent and why.
• Audit Logs: A new settings panel details every network call, extension check, and license lookup the editor makes.
• Easy Disconnection: One toggle in preferences lets you go entirely offline or swap in self-hosted services for updates and AI inference.
4. Open Governance and Community Voice
Microsoft isn’t just opening the code; it’s opening decision-making.
• RFC Process: Major changes go through a public Request for Comments. You can propose features, debate design, and vote on priorities.
• Transparency Board: A group of community and Microsoft representatives reviews governance, setting roadmap items in the open.
• Bug Bashes and Hackathons: Regular events invite developers worldwide to help fix issues, test new features, and shape the future of VS Code.
5. Why It Matters
VS Code commands an enormous share of the code-editor market. This shift to full transparency has ripple effects:
• Vendor Neutrality: Companies that once hesitated to rely on Microsoft software can now adopt VS Code with confidence.
• Innovation Boost: Startups can tailor VS Code to niche needs—be it game development, data science, or embedded systems—without legal red tape.
• Trust and Security: With every line of code exposed, backdoors are easier to detect, and fixes roll out faster.
6. Getting Started Today
Ready to dive in? Here’s what to do next:
1. Visit https://github.com/microsoft/vscode to browse or fork the repo.
2. Clone the code, run the build script, and launch your own copy.
3. Explore the Extensions Marketplace or publish your own extensions under MIT.
4. Join the community on Discord, Gitter, or the public issue tracker to ask questions and share feedback.
Takeaways
• VS Code is now 100% MIT-licensed and free of proprietary assets.
• Built-in AI tools like enhanced IntelliSense and code chat boost productivity.
• Community-driven governance and clear privacy controls put you in charge.
FAQ
Q1: Is this new VS Code edition different from the one I’m using now?
A1: Under the hood, it’s the same editor, but every asset is MIT-licensed. Proprietary fonts, icons, and logging calls are removed. If you clone and build from GitHub, you’ll have a fully open-source version.
Q2: How do I turn off telemetry?
A2: Telemetry is off by default. To double-check, go to Settings → Privacy & Security → Telemetry, and ensure all toggles are disabled. You can view exactly what data is collected in the new Audit Logs panel.
Q3: Can I contribute features or propose changes?
A3: Absolutely. Head to the repo’s RFC folder, find an open proposal, or submit your own. Join the Transparency Board meetings, comment on issues, and help vote on key roadmap items.
Call to Action
Experience the new transparent, AI-powered VS Code today. Clone it on GitHub, voice your ideas, or start building customized editions for your team. Let’s code the future—together!
