Java on Visual Studio Update – April 2023

This blog post provides an update on the latest improvements to the Visual Studio Code Java environment. The updates cover improvements to debugging, Maven extension support for profiles, changes to Java Project Explorer UX, and enhancements to Spring Boot Dashboard visualization.

Maven Extension Profile Support

The Maven extension now supports profiles so that developers can visualize which Maven profiles are in use.

Debugging Improvements

Lazy variables in the debugger were introduced to improve performance. However, developers felt that this caused inconvenience as they had to make extra clicks to reveal the values of basic type variables in debugging mode. To combat this, developers can now expand all lazy variables in one click.

Java Project Explorer UX

Developers requested that more items be added to the Java Project Explorer, such as build tool-related files like POM.xml and resource files. Consequently, the Java Project Explorer has been redesigned to include additional file resources.

Spring Boot Dashboard Visualization Enhancements

Properties are essential in Spring applications, but it's easy to lose track of their value as the application grows. The Spring Boot Dashboard now enables developers to view the live properties of running Spring apps.

To access all of the features mentioned, download and install the Extension Pack for Java on Visual Studio Code or Spring Boot Extension Pack for specialized Spring experience. Developers can leave feedback through commenting on the blog post, opening an issue on the GitHub Issues page, or emailing vscjfeedback@microsoft.com.

Resources

The post provides links that are helpful to learn Java on Visual Studio Code.