Visual Studio Code 1.136 introduces the Agent Host, a dedicated process that allows AI agents to operate independently from the extension host, ensuring session persistence across window closures. Alongside this, Microsoft has released the open Agent Host Protocol (AHP), enabling third-party integrations while introducing features like Agent Merge for automated pull request resolution. The update also includes enhanced support for remote agent execution, multi-root workspaces, and a redesigned Agents window for improved user experience. Overall, this release marks a significant architectural shift in VS Code, positioning AI agents as core components rather than mere extensions

Visual Studio Code 1.136 Ships With Agent Host Architecture and Open Protocol

Visual Studio Code 1.136 ships today, introducing the Agent Host, a dedicated process that isolates AI agents from the extension host so sessions persist across window closures and multiple windows can sync to a single session. Microsoft is also releasing the open Agent Host Protocol (AHP), enabling third-party harnesses like the Copilot SDK and Claude Agent SDK to integrate with a unified interface while unlocking preview features such as Agent Merge for automated PR resolution. The update adds remote agent execution over SSH and dev tunnels, multi-root workspace support for agents, and a redesigned Agents window with chat hierarchies and a unified input field.

Visual Studio Code 1.136 Ships With Agent Host Architecture and Open Protocol @ NT Compatible