Release note

This release represents a major advancement in delivering a comprehensive and efficient VS Code-based development environment for STM32 microcontroller projects.

This release introduces a new platform architecture that will serve as the basis for the evolving STM32CubeIDE for Visual Studio Code environment. As with any innovative tool, it will undergo a maturation process.

Below are the key changes and features from version 2.x to version 3.x and newer:

Breaking Changes

  • Complete architecture redesign : The tool architecture has been split into three major building blocks with the purpose of creating a flexible, maintainable and updatable platform consisting of the following blocks: GUI, CLI tools and STM32 device support.

  • GUI : The platform’s single extension has been transformed into an extension pack, offering a more modular, maintainable and flexible setup.

  • CLI tools : A new bundle manager is enabling VS Code to download required CLI tools. This replaces the all-in-one STM32CubeCLT package. The bundle manager will provide developers flexibility, updatability and re-producibility in terms of CLI tooling.

  • STM32 device support : The STM32 device support is decoupled from VS Code and sourced via CMSIS-PACK DFPs. Developers can now start using a new MCU without having to install a new STM32CubeCLT package.

  • Enhanced Debugging : A new, rich debugging experience is now available, leveraging a brand new STMicroelectronics-owned DAP (Debug Adapter Protocol) implementation, supporting both ST-LINK and SEGGER J-Link debug probes.

  • Clangd Integration : The update now relies on clangd for managing C/C++ code indexing, enhancing code navigation and analysis capabilities.

  • Auto-Discovery of STM32Cube Projects : This feature automatically detects STM32Cube projects, streamlining the setup and configuration process.

New Features

  • Bundle Manager View : A dedicated view for managing bundles has been introduced, simplifying the management of project tool dependencies.

  • Cube CLI Command : The cube CLI command is now available, providing efficient tool management through command-line operations.

  • Build Analysis Solution : A new build analysis solution has been integrated, offering insights into build performance and optimization opportunities.

  • Board Manager : The board manager view allows developers to show the ST-LINK serial number and update the ST-LINK firmware.

  • Enhanced RTOS Debug : The existing open-source debug views have been complemented with two additional tree views showing additional kernel objects as well as the full call stack for all RTOS threads. Supported RTOSes are FreeRTOS and ThreadX.