Fix common issues

Extension won't install

• Ensure you have a compatible version of VS Code (1.94.0 or later)
• Check that VS Code has permission to install extensions
• Try installing directly from the VS Code Marketplace

Spark icon not visible

The Spark icon appears in the Editor Toolbar (top-right of editor) when you have a file open. If you don't see it:

1. Open a file: The icon requires a file to be open. Having just a folder open isn't enough.
2. Check VS Code version: Requires 1.94.0 or higher (Help → About)
3. Restart VS Code: Run "Developer: Reload Window" from the Command Palette
4. Disable conflicting extensions: Temporarily disable other AI extensions (Cline, Continue, etc.)
5. Check workspace trust: The extension doesn't work in Restricted Mode

Alternatively, if you've set preferredLocation to sidebar, or opened Claude with Claude Code: Open in Side Bar, click "✱ Claude Code" in the Status Bar (bottom-right corner). This works even without a file open. You can also use the Command Palette (Cmd+Shift+P / Ctrl+Shift+P) and type "Claude Code".

Cmd+Esc does nothing on macOS

On macOS Tahoe and later, the system Game Overlay shortcut is bound to Cmd+Esc by default and intercepts the keypress before it reaches VS Code. To free the shortcut:

1. Open System Settings
2. Go to Keyboard, then Keyboard Shortcuts, then Game Controllers
3. Clear the Game Overlay checkbox

Alternatively, rebind the extension to a different key: open the VS Code Keyboard Shortcuts editor (Cmd+K Cmd+S), search for Claude Code: Focus input, and assign a new binding.

Claude Code never responds

If Claude Code isn't responding to your prompts:

1. Check your internet connection: Ensure you have a stable internet connection
2. Start a new conversation: Try starting a fresh conversation to see if the issue persists
3. Try the CLI: Run claude from the terminal to see if you get more detailed error messages

If problems persist, file an issue on GitHub with details about the error.