Visual Studio Code

Visual Studio Code is a streamlined code editor with support for development operations like debugging, task running, and version control. It aims to provide just the tools a developer needs for a quick code-build-debug cycle.

Mac Features

• Native Apple Silicon Support: Optimized performance on M1/M2 Macs
• TouchBar Support: Custom TouchBar controls for supported MacBooks
• macOS Integration: Native system features like keychain access and notifications
• Command Line Integration: Launch from terminal with code command

Installation Methods

Homebrew

brew install --cask visual-studio-code

Direct Download

1. Download the universal binary from code.visualstudio.com/Download
2. Move the app to your Applications folder
3. Optionally install the code command in PATH

System Requirements

• macOS 11.0 (Big Sur) or later
• Native support for both Apple Silicon and Intel Macs
• 4GB RAM minimum (8GB recommended)
• 1GB free disk space

Extensions and Customization

• Rich extension ecosystem
• Customizable keyboard shortcuts
• Integrated terminal
• Git integration
• Debugging support
• IntelliSense code completion