The issue of Visual Studio Code (VS Code) not auto updating on macOS has been reported by users. This problem occurs when VS Code is running from a read-only folder.

Various solutions have been suggested to address this issue. These solutions involve relocating the application from one folder to another, such as from the Applications directory to the Downloads folder and then back to the Applications folder, or quitting VS Code, dragging it to different folders while holding down specific keys.

Additionally, running a command in the Terminal has been proposed as a solution. If none of these unconventional solutions work, completely moving VS Code from the Applications folder to the Downloads folder and then back to the Applications folder may be required. It is essential to exit VS Code before attempting any of these solutions.

It is worth noting that these solutions have been successful for some macOS users, but their effectiveness may be specific to this operating system.

Why doesn’t it update?

The issue of VS Code not auto-updating on macOS may be attributed to its location in a read-only folder. By default, VS Code is installed in the Applications folder, which is usually writeable for most users. However, in some cases, the folder where VS Code is located may have read-only permissions, preventing the software from automatically updating itself.

This limitation can be overcome by trying the following solutions:

1. Moving the VS Code application file to a different folder, such as the Downloads folder.
2. Then, move it back to the Applications folder.

Additionally, running the command ‘xattr -dr com.apple.quarantine /Applications/Visual Studio Code.app’ in the Terminal can also resolve the issue.

It is important to note that these solutions may seem unconventional and counterintuitive, but they have been successful in enabling auto-updates for VS Code on macOS for some users.

Solutions to the issue

One possible solution to the issue of auto updates not occurring on macOS involves moving the VS Code application file to different folders. This can be done by following these steps:

1. Quit VS Code completely.
2. Drag the application file from the Applications folder to the Downloads folder.
3. Drag the application file back to the Applications folder.

Another solution is to follow these steps:

1. Quit VS Code completely.
2. Find it in the Applications folder.
3. Hold down the command key and drag it to the Downloads folder.
4. Drag the application file back to the Applications folder.

Additionally, running the command ‘xattr -dr com.apple.quarantine /Applications/Visual Studio Code.app’ in the Terminal can also solve the problem.

If none of these solutions work, you can try moving VS Code from the Applications folder to the Downloads folder completely, and then moving it back to the Applications folder. Remember to exit VS Code completely before performing any of these solutions.

Possible causes and factors

Possible causes and factors for the issue of auto updates not occurring on macOS include:

• Read-only permissions on the folder where the application is located.
• Conflicts between the folder’s read-only status and the auto-update feature.

The read-only permissions on the folder may prevent VS Code from making necessary modifications to its files, resulting in the failure of auto updates.

Additionally, conflicts can arise when the read-only status of the folder contradicts the auto-update feature’s requirement to modify and update the application.

It is important to note that these causes and factors are specific to macOS and may not apply to other operating systems.

By understanding these factors, users can troubleshoot and resolve the issue by following the provided solutions.