Most developers think of Visual Studio Code (VS Code) as a desktop-only app. You download it, install updates, and keep it open while you code. But here’s something many people don’t realize: you can now run VS Code on any device, including your iPhone or iPad, straight from your browser.
This is possible because VS Code is now available as a Progressive Web App (PWA) - and yes, it works surprisingly well.
What’s a PWA and why it matters
A Progressive Web App is a web application that behaves like a native app. You can install it directly from your browser, it works offline, and it updates automatically. PWAs also launch from your home screen and feel just like any other installed app.
Some quick reasons PWAs are awesome:
- No app store required
- No manual updates
- Lighter than native apps
- Works across Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux
In short, PWAs let you use your favorite tools anywhere without the friction of traditional installs.
How to run VS Code and VS Code Insiders as PWAs
Microsoft has quietly made this possible through two official web apps:
Both versions can be installed as PWAs and launched like native apps.
Here’s how to set it up:
- Open vscode.dev or insiders.vscode.dev in your browser.
- Click the “Install App” icon that appears in the address bar.
- That’s it! Now you can launch VS Code directly from your desktop or home screen.
If you’re using an iPhone or iPad, open it in Safari, tap the Share icon, and select “Add to Home Screen.” You’ll get a VS Code icon that opens a fully functional coding environment.
Both versions work offline, support GitHub integration, and are ideal for quick edits or coding sessions on the go.
You can also find both in PWA Store, listed as Visual Studio Code and Visual Studio Code Insiders.
Other trending PWAs you should try
If you think running VS Code as a PWA is impressive, check out some other popular installable web apps from PWA Store:
- Monkeytype – A clean, highly customizable typing test to improve your speed and accuracy.
- Wavemaker Cards – A creative writing suite with mind maps, timelines, and project planning tools.
- Clara – A gentle space for mental health journaling and community support.
- Photopea – A full-featured online photo editor that feels like Photoshop in your browser.
- Tower Game – A simple, addictive block-stacking game that runs offline.
- Zoom – Join or host meetings instantly without any downloads.
- OpenStreetMap – Explore and contribute to the world’s open map project.
You can explore thousands more at PWA Store, all installable in a single click.
Why this shift matters
PWAs are quietly changing how we use software. They remove friction: no app stores, no large downloads, and no forced updates. You just open your browser, install once, and it’s always ready.
VS Code is a great example of what’s possible now - a full coding environment that runs anywhere, from any device. Combine that with tools like Monkeytype or Photopea, and you start to see how the web is becoming a true application platform.
If you haven’t tried a PWA yet, start with VS Code on PWA Store or VS Code Insiders and see how far the web has come.
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