Hot-Exit for Empty Workspaces
Unsaved files in empty workspaces now restore on startup
Empty workspaces (without folders) now support hot-exit, automatically restoring unsaved files like drafts and single files when you restart Zed.
What This Means
Previously, closing Zed with unsaved files in an empty workspace would lose those files. Now they’re preserved and restored on next launch.
Protected content:
- Unsaved draft files
- Single files opened without a project folder
- Scratch buffers with content
Empty workspaces are identified by workspace_id rather than file paths, allowing multiple empty workspaces to coexist and restore independently.
How It Works
No configuration needed - hot-exit is automatic:
- Open Zed without a project folder
- Create or edit files without saving
- Close Zed
- Reopen Zed
- Your unsaved work is restored
Why This Matters
No lost work: Close Zed confidently knowing unsaved files will return.
Scratch workflow: Use Zed for quick notes and drafts without worrying about saving.
Session continuity: Pick up exactly where you left off, even in empty workspaces.
Perfect for users who frequently work with single files or use Zed as a quick scratchpad without opening project folders.