AI Toolkit for VS Code March Update

We are thrilled to announce the release of AI Toolkit VS Code extension March update – with continuous improvements to empower AI engineers and developers. This version introduced new features and updates with the latest popular AI models, tutorials, model comparison in Playground and many other enhancements! 

Here’s a closer look at the new additions in the AI Toolkit March release:  

New Features & Enhancements 

📚 Introducing Tutorials for Prompt Engineering

We’re adding the first set of tutorials to help you get started with common prompt engineering techniques. You can access them under CATALOG > Tutorials in the UI. 

🔍 Compare Model Responses in Playground 

Easily compare outputs from different models within the Playground, allowing for more effective evaluation and fine-tuning of responses. 

🧠 Think Mode for Claude 3.7 Sonnet 

The Think Mode feature is now available for the Claude 3.7 Sonnet model in both Playground and Prompt Builder, providing deeper reasoning capabilities for complex tasks. 

🤖 New Model Additions 

• Llama, DeepSeek R1 and Mistral Nemo via Nvdia NIM for Windows on RTX AI PCs. 

• QwQ via Ollama – A reasoning-focused model from the Qwen series, designed for structured thinking. 

• GPT-4.5 from OpenAI – OpenAI’s latest general-purpose LLM, optimized for more natural and fluid interactions. 

• DeepSeek v3 via GitHub – Excels in coding, math, and reasoning-related tasks. 

• DeepSeek R1 Model 7B and 14B via ONNX runtime.  

Incremental Improvements 

Playground Enhancements 

• Copy model responses for easy sharing and reference. 

• Regenerate responses with the same or a different model for quick iteration. 

Model Catalog Enhancements 

• Quick access to Claude 3.7 Sonnet, GPT-4.5, and QwQ via the Popular Models section. 

• Filter models based on capabilities like Web Search, Attachments, and Structured Outputs to find the best fit for your use case. 

Share your feedback  

With the additions in the February update, AI Toolkit continues to evolve, putting greater control and creativity in your hands.  

Get started with the latest version, share your feedback, and let us know how these new features help you in your AI development journey. As always, we’re here to listen, collaborate, and grow alongside our amazing user community.  

Thank you for being a part of this journey—let’s build the future of AI together! 🚀