Simplified AKS Menu Structure (Feature Flag)

This release introduces a new role-based AKS cluster context menu organization behind a feature flag.

Feature flag

{
  "aks.simplifiedMenuStructure": true
}

Default value: false

After changing this setting, reload the VS Code window.

What changes when enabled

Instead of many top-level commands, cluster actions are grouped into three submenus:

• Develop & Deploy
• Troubleshoot & Diagnose
• Manage Cluster

Direct commands Show In Azure Portal and Show Properties remain available.

Menu grouping overview

Develop & Deploy : Run Kubectl commands, Container Assist (preview), Attach ACR, Create GitHub Workflow, KAITO submenu, Install Azure Service Operator.

Troubleshoot & Diagnose : AKS Diagnostics submenu, Inspektor Gadget, network troubleshooting submenu, resource utilization submenu, Eraser Tool, security submenu.

Manage Cluster : Show properties, show in portal, delete cluster, rotate certificate, reconcile cluster.

Container Assist in the new menu

When both feature flags are enabled:

• aks.simplifiedMenuStructure = true
• aks.containerAssistEnabledPreview = true

and a workspace folder is open, AKS: Run Container Assist (Preview) appears under Develop & Deploy.

Backward compatibility

When aks.simplifiedMenuStructure is false, the previous menu organization stays active. This allows gradual rollout, internal validation, and user feedback collection without breaking existing workflows.

Suggested rollout plan

1. Keep default false for broad compatibility.
2. Enable in dogfood or preview cohorts.
3. Collect feedback on discoverability and click depth.
4. Promote to default once validated.

Screenshots