Microsoft Launches Open-Source Command Line Editor Built with Rust

Microsoft has announced the development of a new open-source command line editor, named Microsoft Edit, which is set to become a feature of Windows 11. This tool aims to fill the void for users missing a built-in command line editor in 64-bit Windows environments, especially in light of the limitations of the MS-DOS editor, which is only available in 32-bit versions.

Unveiled during the Microsoft Build conference, the editor is designed to be lightweight, with a file size of approximately 250 kilobytes. Unlike traditional modal editors such as Vim, which can be daunting for newcomers, Microsoft Edit opts for a more straightforward user experience, allowing users to navigate and operate without confusion. This move comes in response to the popularity of memes questioning how to exit Vim, highlighting the need for a more user-friendly alternative.

The source code for Microsoft Edit has been made publicly available on GitHub, showcasing that the entire application is developed in the Rust programming language. This choice reflects a growing trend towards using Rust for its performance and safety features.

As expected from a command line editor, Microsoft Edit provides functionality primarily through keyboard shortcuts, many of which mirror those found in Visual Studio Code. Currently, the editor supports basic features such as opening multiple files simultaneously, switching between them via keyboard shortcuts, and a line-wrapping option. Additionally, it includes a search and replace function that supports regular expressions, making it a versatile tool for developers and users alike.

At present, Microsoft Edit is available on GitHub for both Windows and Linux platforms. Microsoft plans to distribute a preview version through its Windows Insider Program in the upcoming months, with full integration into Windows 11 expected thereafter. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to modernize and enhance the development environment for users, particularly those who rely on command line tools.

Despite its early-stage development, Microsoft Edit has already been assigned a version number of 1.0.0, signaling its readiness for user testing and feedback. The introduction of this tool reflects Microsoft's commitment to supporting open-source projects and enhancing the developer experience on Windows.