VS Code: Option to open file diffs in side panel instead of main editor tabs

Resolved 💬 2 comments Opened Apr 2, 2026 by eroun-dsyoon Closed Jun 5, 2026

Feature Request

When Claude Code edits a file in the VS Code extension, the diff view opens as a new tab in the main editor area (e.g., [Claude Code] agents.py). This can be disruptive when you already have files open that you're referencing.

Proposed Solution

Add a setting (e.g., claude-code.diffLocation) to control where file edit diffs appear:

  • tab (default, current behavior) — opens as a tab in the main editor
  • sidebar / secondarySideBar — opens in the VS Code secondary side bar or side panel

Use Case

When reviewing Claude's edits while referencing other files, having the diff appear in the sidebar keeps the main editor workspace undisturbed. This is especially useful when working with multiple files open.

Current Workaround

None — there is no VS Code or extension setting to control this behavior.

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