What's the biggest feature in Rider 2026.1 RC?

File-based C# programs — open, run, and debug standalone .cs files without project files, bringing C# closer to Python's instant-run experience for rapid prototyping.

What other improvements are included?

Enhanced MAUI development on Windows, mixed-mode debugging, and early CMake project support, making Rider more comprehensive for cross-platform .NET and game development.

How does this affect C# in AI?

Project-free C# support enables rapid AI experimentation, lowering barriers for C# in AI prototyping. Combined with ML.NET, C#'s position in AI development could improve.

— AI DAILY

Sources

JetBrains Blog