JetBrains Launches ReSharper 2026.2 EAP with Open AI Agent Ecosystem for Visual Studio
February 2025 - JetBrains has officially kicked off the Early Access Program (EAP) for ReSharper and .NET Tools 2026.2, dedicating this first preview entirely to an open AI agent architecture. The initiative promises to end vendor lock-in by letting developers choose their own AI models and agents directly inside Visual Studio.
“We believe developers shouldn’t be forced into a single AI ecosystem,” said a JetBrains spokesperson. “This EAP marks the start of a truly open platform where you control your AI experience, from local agents to cloud-based models.” The EAP is free to download and test.
Key Features of ReSharper 2026.2 EAP 1
The centerpiece is Junie, JetBrains’ own AI coding agent, which serves as the first proof-of-concept for the company’s full Agent Client Protocol (ACP) support inside ReSharper. This foundation will lead to the ACP Agent Registry, an open marketplace of AI agents accessible through a unified interface.
- Discover agents: Browse local, remote, and in-house agents directly from Visual Studio.
- Set up easily: All agents connect through the same interface without complex configuration.
- Switch between agents: Choose the best model for each task, whether writing code, debugging, or refactoring.
- Stay current: Get the latest AI models as they are released, with no need to wait for IDE updates.
Junie can actively write and edit code, execute complex refactorings, and even build entire features from natural language prompts—all while keeping the developer in full control of the final commit.
Background
Traditionally, ReSharper EAP announcements covered a mix of performance improvements, new features, and bug fixes. This release breaks that pattern. JetBrains is pivoting to AI as a core differentiator, aiming to integrate intelligent assistants without disrupting classic .NET development workflows.
“We see a future where AI-assisted coding and your normal routines coexist beautifully,” the spokesperson added. “This is our concrete step toward that vision.” The open protocol approach mirrors industry moves toward interoperability, such as Microsoft’s own AI agent initiatives.
What This Means
For .NET developers using Visual Studio, this EAP signals a fundamental shift. Instead of being tied to a single AI provider, they can now evaluate and switch between agents from JetBrains, third-party vendors, or even their own in-house models—all without leaving the IDE.
“The ‘Any Agent’ vision puts developers back in the driver’s seat,” said the spokesperson. “You can test Junie for free today, but the real prize is the open ecosystem that will follow.” Developers participating in the EAP can help shape the agent registry and provide feedback directly to the team.
The final release of ReSharper 2026.2 is expected later this year, with additional agents and deeper ACP integration planned throughout the program. Download the EAP now from the JetBrains website to try Junie and explore the future of AI-driven .NET development.