Rich image and markdown diffs

The latest iteration of the pull request "Files changed" interface delivers visual diff previews for image and markdown files that have been added or modified. Users working with markdown and .svg files can switch between viewing the raw source or a rendered preview. Multiple comparison modes—including 2-up, swipe, and onion skin views—are available for all supported image formats.

Improved file tree ordering

File and folder arrangement within the tree now aligns more closely with GitHub's other interfaces and standard IDE behavior. Directories now appear before individual files at each level, eliminating the previous scenario where files could appear interspersed with folders, creating confusion about file locations.

Other improvements

Several additional refinements have been implemented since the previous release:

  • Fixed: Expanding diff sections would sometimes fail when file paths contained certain characters.
  • Fixed: Selecting a collapsed file from the tree or side panel now automatically expands it.
  • Improved: Ongoing optimization efforts have reduced unnecessary re-renders when handling larger pull requests.
  • Improved: Operation progress is now indicated by a spinner on buttons such as Add comment, providing clearer feedback to users.

Known issues

The preview experience still lacks several capabilities that GitHub intends to add:

  • Reviewing a single commit
  • Applying multiple suggested changes (batching)
  • Submodule changes
  • Code scanning alerts (and the ability to dismiss the alerts)
  • Keyboard shortcuts, including to hide annotations

Additionally, the interface currently displays only the first 300 files in any pull request. Users examining larger pull requests can revert to the classic interface.

The feedback discussion maintains a current accounting of known issues.

Feedback

Those interested in testing the new interface can select the Try the new experience option at the top of the current pull request "Files changed" page. GitHub welcomes input through the feedback discussion, where users can report issues, ask questions, and stay informed about developments.

Source: GitHub Blog