Rider 2023.2 is now generally available. This version contains improvements for C# language support. They are concerned with code readability and improve the programming experience. Next, there are some UI/UX improvements. JetBrains has also introduced an AI assistant that is currently limited access.
Rider 2023.2 introduces several improvements to C# language support, improving the programming experience for developers. One of the main new features is improved support for raw string literals, including new checks, dereference actions, and improved typing support, making working with these literals much easier. For developers working with Entity Framework, Ryder now offers special checks and quick fixes for common problems, improving debugging and increasing productivity.
Another feature is the focus on code readability. Added two new checks and related quick fixes to improve code clarity when handling native functions. In addition, it introduced checks for riders #nullable directives and the null-permitting reference type (NRT) annotation, simplifying the management of null-permitting types. Navigation becomes more intuitive with improved handling of var Helping declarations, code exploration and understanding.
Furthermore, Rider takes advantage of the latest developments in the C# language, offering support for main constructors for non-record classes and structures from the introduction version of C# 12. Default parameter values in lambda expressions provide flexibility in function definitions. The tool also introduces new code inspection, which provides better control over object deletion and improved support for C# language deprecation, improving code quality and reliability. These updates enable Rider to provide an efficient and user-friendly environment for C# developers.
The new release has UX/UI changes. Features include color-coded project navigation to easily differentiate between open projects. It is also possible to customize header colors and set custom icons for the solution. In addition, the main UI toolbar is now customizable, offering a drop-down menu to add preferred actions for quick and easy access. Managing run configurations is made easy with the option to pin favorite configurations to the Run widget, improving project organization. Other UI improvements include a redesigned hamburger menu, a lighter theme with bright headers, one-click navigation between project directories, sorting files by modification time in Solution Explorer, and updated window controls for macOS.
This release also adds a new feature to Rider with limited access called AI Assistant. It offers a variety of AI-based functions that integrate seamlessly into the IDE’s core workflows. An AI assistant can analyze selected code, interpret validation or errors at runtime, create documentation, and generate Unity files based on requirements.
A question appeared below one of the LinkedIn posts:
Is the waiting list long for an AI assistant and does it play nicely with GitHub Copilot?
JetBrains replied that the AI assistant does not interfere with GitHub Copilot, and as for the waiting list, it is currently almost empty, so it is possible to join without any problems.
For more information on all of these features, JetBrains has the opportunity to review the complete list of requests addressed in this release cycle in their public bug tracking tool.