Remote debugging is another welcome update.
Cloud revenue, SQL Server, Exchange and SharePoint help offset Windows declines.
The hardest-hit are those with Microsoft's own device -- Surface RT tablets.
Team Foundation Server 2013 is also part of the package.
Developers with Windows 8.1 apps in the Windows Store get "preferential treatment".
Microsoft adds a libraries feed that is as fully supported as the .NET Framework.
64-bit Edit and Continue is the key feature addition.
The libraries are also included in the upcoming release of Visual Studio 2013.
Developers have to register to get the update, which is available starting with Windows Phone 8, Update 3
Five- and 6-inch screens, up to 1080p HD resolution, will be supported.
Many developers would not put code in the repository, due to the lack of a GPLv3 license option.
More than 400 products were voted on, to find the best.
It's the last upgrade before Visual Studio 2013 hits the streets.
The JIT compiler will also be the new codebase for future compilers across platforms.
There are plenty of limitations, though, including no support for Oracle Database clustering.
A special upgrade price for Visual Studio 2013 Professional saves $200 over regular upgrade price.
New Monitoring Agent uses IntelliTrace capabilities.
BrowserSwarm tests all major JavaScript frameworks for errors.
Telerik's Icenium compiles HTML/JavaScript/CSS programs into their iOS and Android counterparts.
A serious shortage of workers in big data is predicted for the future as well.