Build 2025: Microsoft Open-Sources WSL and Unveils New Developer Tools to Boost Productivity on Windows 11
Microsoft debuts open-source WSL, new dev tools, and AI features to boost productivity on Windows 11.
Key Takeaways:
- Microsoft open-sourced Windows Subsystem for Linux, boosting developer customization.
- New tools include a command-line editor and AI integration features for Windows 11.
- Microsoft Store adds new programs to support app developers and improve discovery.
Microsoft has announced a suite of productivity enhancements designed to enhance its popular Windows Developer tools. Among the biggest announcements is the open-source release of the Windows Subsystem for Linux, empowering developers with greater flexibility and customization.
Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) was first introduced in 2016 as part of the Windows 10 Anniversary Update. It enables users to run a Linux environment directly on Windows without a virtual machine or dual-boot setup. WSL lets developers use Linux command-line tools and utilities natively on Windows, making it easier to work across platforms
This open-source release of WSL enables developers to customize the source code of WSL to suit their own needs. They can also add new capabilities and bug fixes, as well as participate in the active development of WSL. Starting today, developers can download the source code of WSL from GitHub.
Additionally, Microsoft will introduce a new command-line text editor called Edit that will be installed by default on Windows 11. It will allow developers to edit files directly within the command line. This new editor is now open source, and it will be available in the Windows Insider program this summer.
Microsoft will also add Advanced Windows Settings to help developers control and personalize their Windows experience. These settings will be available for Windows Insiders in the coming weeks. Other updates to Windows Developer Tools include Command Palette in Microsoft PowerToys and Microsoft DSC V3 support for WinGet Configuration.
Native support for Model Context Protocol (MCP) and App Actions on Windows 11
Microsoft also announced today an early preview of native support for Model Context Protocol (MCP) on Windows 11. The Model Context Protocol (MCP) is a standardized communication framework that enables AI models to interact with external tools, data sources, and APIs. On Windows, MCP will allow AI agents to seamlessly interact with native Windows applications. These apps can make specific features accessible to the AI agents, allowing them to perform more complex tasks on a local PC.
This feature will include two components: the MCP Registry for Windows and MCP Servers for Windows. MCP Registry for Windows will let agents discover installed MCP servers on a Windows PC through the MCP Registry. Moreover, MCP Servers for Windows will allow developers to integrate certain Windows system functionalities (such as File System, Windowing and Windows Subsystem for Linux) into their apps as MCP Servers. This feature will be available in a private developer preview with select partners in the next few months.
With App Actions on Windows, developers will be able to integrate actions for specific features into their apps. This new feature will help app developers increase discoverability for their features. Developers will be able to build and test actions through the App Actions API and App Actions Testing Playground.
Lastly, the Microsoft Store is getting new capabilities for developers, including the Open Beta of App Campaigns, free account registration for individual developers, and discovery capabilities for apps on Windows. There is also a new Microsoft Store FastTrack free preview program that allows qualified companies to submit their first Win32 app.
Rabia has a master's degree in Software Engineering and she has years of experience writing professionally about Microsoft products and other technologies. Rabia has also written for OnMSFT.com as well as Windows Report. She is always up to date on t...
