Status. Somnia is in development. Only the Phase 0 browser prototype exists today. The native desktop app, the AI layer, framework support, the extension SDK and any download or purchase are not available yet.
The short version
Somnia is not meant to replace VS Code for application development. It is meant for the case where you want to see and click the page you are editing, and still end up with plain files. If you are happiest in code, you may not need it.
Side by side
| VS Code | Somnia | |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | General code editor with a large extension ecosystem | Visual editor for HTML and CSS, with a code view |
| Visual canvas | Not built in (check extensions) | Working in the prototype: real page rendered in a browser canvas |
| Code editing | Very mature | CodeMirror 6 in the prototype. Competent, not a VS Code rival. |
| Languages | Almost any | HTML, CSS, JS first. Frameworks planned later. |
| Extensions | Large marketplace | Planned SDK (Phase 4). Not started. |
| Price | Free (check the vendor) | Planned free tier and one-time license. Not for sale. |
How they can work together
Because Somnia keeps your project as plain files, you can open the same folder in VS Code. There is no project format that blocks this. In the prototype, opening and saving a local folder works in Chromium-based browsers. The native app is planned.
When to stay with VS Code only
Back-end work, apps, big codebases and anything outside HTML and CSS belong in a code editor. Somnia does not aim to be one.
Comparison notes
Visual Studio Code is a trademark of its owner and is used here only to name the product being compared. Somnia is not affiliated with or endorsed by it. Information about Visual Studio Code reflects publicly available descriptions and may be out of date; check the vendor for current details. Somnia statements describe plans unless marked as working in the prototype.
Related: features, planned pricing, all comparisons, FAQ.
FAQ
Is Somnia a code editor?
It has one, but the point is the visual canvas with a code view. Do not expect VS Code features such as a terminal or an extension marketplace yet.
Can I edit the same project in both?
That is the design: plain files on disk, no project format. Work on a copy while Somnia is a prototype.
Will Somnia have VS Code extensions?
No. Somnia plans its own extension SDK in Phase 4.