install-vscode-extension

Installs VS Code extensions by extension ID using the workbench command.

1|Updated Apr 8, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/voidful/Aixlarity --skill install-vscode-extension-voidful
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: install-vscode-extension
Source: https://github.com/voidful/Aixlarity/tree/main/aixlarity-ide/extensions/copilot/assets/prompts/skills/install-vscode-extension
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/voidful/Aixlarity --skill install-vscode-extension-voidful

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve? Adding new capabilities to VS Code normally requires opening the Extensions view, searching, and clicking install manually. This Skill lets an AI agent install any VS Code extension directly from its extension ID, without leaving the conversation. ## Core Features & Use Cases - Extension ID Resolution: Works with standard publisher.extensionName identifiers such as ms-python.python. - Command-Based Installation: Invokes the built-in workbench.extensions.installExtension command through the copilot_runVscodeCommand tool with skipCheck enabled. - Stable vs Pre-Release Handling: Installs the pre-release version only when the user explicitly asks or when running in VS Code Insiders; otherwise installs the stable version. - Use Case: A user says "install the Python extension" and the agent runs the install command for ms-python.python with the extension enabled immediately. ## Quick Start Ask the agent to install a VS Code extension by name or ID, for example: install the ms-python.python extension in VS Code.

Frequently Asked Questions about install-vscode-extension

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I install a VS Code extension from the command line or an AI agent?

Run the built-in workbench.extensions.installExtension command with the extension ID as the argument. An AI agent can trigger this through the copilot_runVscodeCommand tool, passing the ID and options like enable and installPreReleaseVersion.

What is a VS Code extension ID and where do I find it?

An extension ID follows the format publisher.extensionName, such as ms-python.python for the Microsoft Python extension. You can find it on the extension's Marketplace page or in the extension details pane inside VS Code.

How do I install the pre-release version of a VS Code extension?

Pass installPreReleaseVersion as true in the install command arguments. This should only be done when the user explicitly requests it or when the current environment is VS Code Insiders; otherwise the stable version is installed.

Can I install VS Code extensions without opening the Extensions view?

Yes, the workbench.extensions.installExtension command installs extensions programmatically without opening the UI. The agent passes skipCheck as true since the command is known to exist.

Why does extension installation fail for an unknown extension ID?

Installation fails when the extension ID is misspelled or does not exist on the Marketplace. Verify the exact publisher.extensionName identifier before running the install command.