VS Code Insiders Podcast

Microsoft
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29 snips
Oct 20, 2025 • 27min

Mastering Chat Modes in VS Code with Burke Holland

Burke Holland, a developer renowned for creating Beast Mode, delves into the fascinating world of custom chat modes in VS Code. He explains how these modes evolve to optimize developer tasks and increase model agency, specifically in GPT-4.1. Burke walks through the structure of chat mode files, automating repetitive workflows, and using Beast Mode to enforce internet utilization. He shares tips on refining output formats and customizing modes to fit specific workflows, making development more efficient and enjoyable.
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19 snips
Oct 13, 2025 • 26min

Building agent memory for VS Code with Harald Kirschner

Harald Kirschner, a Program Manager on the VS Code team, dives into the exciting world of AI features and customization. He explains how custom instructions, prompts, and chat modes can enhance productivity. Harald discusses building agent memory as an extension, which simplifies workflow and keeps repositories tidy. With insights on proposed APIs for VS Code, he emphasizes the importance of tailored development environments and invites listeners to try his new extension while sharing feedback. A must-listen for developers interested in AI integration!
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10 snips
Oct 6, 2025 • 23min

Impact of AI on How We Learn to Code with Scott Tolinski

Scott Tolinski, a developer educator and creator of Level Up Tutorials, discusses the evolving landscape of coding education. He reflects on his journey from traditional learning methods to the rise of screencasts. The conversation dives into the dual impact of AI on coding, enhancing problem-solving but also challenging users to maintain deep knowledge. Scott emphasizes gradual integration of AI in learning and offers strategies for educators to clarify AI’s use while ensuring it complements traditional methods.
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Sep 29, 2025 • 23min

The Origins & Evolution of the GitHub MCP Registry

In this discussion, Toby Padilla, Principal Product Manager at GitHub, sheds light on the Model Context Protocol (MCP) and its significance in enhancing workflows across various platforms. He explains how MCP servers enable tools like GitHub and Playwright to interact seamlessly. Toby also delves into the importance of the GitHub MCP registry for standardization and discovery, the vision for an open-source canonical registry, and enterprise governance issues surrounding private MCP servers. Tune in for an insightful look into the future of tool integration!
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Sep 22, 2025 • 22min

The Future of Coding Agents in VS Code

Brigit and Josh join the podcast to talk about the latest enhancements to coding agents, aka background tasks, aka background agents in VS Code. They break down why you would use them, how to use them, and their future. Follow VS Code: X: https://x.com/code Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/vscode.dev YouTube: https://youtube.com/code LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/104107263 GitHub: https://github.com/microsoft/vscode Special Guests: Brigit Murtaugh and Josh Spicer.Links:Sharp SolarizedCopilot Coding Agent docsv1.104 Updates for coding agentGitHub Pull Requests Extension
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Sep 15, 2025 • 26min

Life of a VS Code SWE Intern with Christy Nguyen

Christy Nguyen, a rising junior from the University of Washington, shares her inspiring journey to becoming a VS Code software engineering intern. She details how she secured her internship and the development of the highly-requested Git worktree support feature. Christy also dives into her experience with mentorship, team dynamics, and the balance between remote and in-office collaboration. She offers valuable insights on using AI tools in development and encourages others to contribute to open source projects.
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Sep 8, 2025 • 17min

Language Model Chat Provider (aka BYOK) API with Logan Ramos

Logan Ramos, a Senior Software Engineer on the VS Code team, dives into the innovative Bring Your Own Key (BYOK) feature, allowing users to configure various language models. He unpacks the trade-offs between cloud and local models regarding privacy and performance. Logan explains the new extensible API that permits model providers to create marketplace extensions. Additionally, he shares insights on early adopter feedback and the team's ‘dogfooding’ experiences, revealing how they’re refining model selection for users.
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10 snips
Sep 1, 2025 • 58min

Building a MCP to Build VS Code & The Impact of AI on Kent C. Dodds

Kent C. Dodds, a full-time educator specializing in testing and AI, joins Tyler Leonhardt, a developer from the VS Code team. They discuss the latest advancements in Model Control Protocol (MCP) authentication and how it’s shaping developer experiences. Kent shares insights on integrating AI into programming education and the evolving landscape of tools that enhance learning. Their conversation also touches on the impact of conferences in fostering community and innovation, marking a dynamic shift in product engineering.
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Aug 25, 2025 • 31min

Iteration Plan for August & Re-writing Terminal Tools

Join VS Code engineer Daniel Imms as he shares behind-the-scenes insights into the upcoming August features for VS Code. Discover how community feedback shapes the development process and learn about significant terminal enhancements, including Copilot Chat integration and automatic approval settings. Daniel dives into the collaborative approach that ensures user-friendly updates while emphasizing security and functionality. Don't miss these exciting changes that could revolutionize your coding experience!
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11 snips
Aug 18, 2025 • 19min

Hello GPT-5 & GPT-5 mini

The podcast dives deep into the exciting features of GPT-5 and GPT-5 mini, unveiling their transformative impact on development in Visual Studio Code. Listeners learn about advanced task management and the flexibility of handling multiple chat workflows. The new 'beast mode' enhances interaction with coding agents, while the introduction of auto-approval mode streamlines tool management. With these updates, developers can look forward to improved project management and a host of new capabilities to elevate their coding experience.

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