IDE (Integrated Development Environment)
An IDE is a software application that provides comprehensive tools for software development in a single interface, including a code editor, debugger, and build tools. Modern AI-powered IDEs like Cursor integrate AI assistants directly into the development environment, enabling vibe coding workflows.
Example
Cursor is an AI-native IDE built on VS Code that lets you chat with AI about your code, get inline suggestions, and use AI agents to make changes across multiple files — all without leaving your editor.
The IDE is where vibe coding happens. While you can use AI through chat interfaces, AI-integrated IDEs create a seamless workflow where assistance is always available in context.
Traditional IDE Features
- Code editor — Syntax highlighting, formatting
- File management — Project navigation, search
- Debugging — Breakpoints, variable inspection
- Terminal — Run commands without switching apps
- Extensions — Additional functionality
AI-Enhanced IDE Features
Modern IDEs add:
- Inline completions — AI suggests code as you type
- Chat interface — Discuss code with AI in context
- Codebase awareness — AI understands your whole project
- Agent capabilities — AI can edit multiple files
- Context management — Include relevant files in prompts
Why IDE-Integrated AI Beats Standalone Chat
| Standalone Chat | IDE-Integrated |
|---|---|
| Copy-paste code back and forth | AI edits files directly |
| Manually provide context | IDE shares relevant files automatically |
| Switch between apps | Everything in one place |
| Generic code suggestions | Project-aware suggestions |
The Modern Vibe Coding IDE Stack
Most vibe coders use:
- Cursor — AI-native IDE with chat, agents, and rules
- Plus a chat app — Claude or ChatGPT for longer discussions
- Terminal — Still essential for running code
The IDE is command central for implementation; chat apps handle exploration and planning.
Cursor
Emergent — An agentic vibe-coding platform that builds production-ready apps