Windsurf editor wave 8 adds memories for Cascade, rules support, and MCP integration

Windsurf Editor Wave 8 update wraps up a series of improvements centered on user experience and Cascade plugin enhancements. Notably, Windsurf’s JetBrains Plugin for Cascade now features Memories. This allows it to retain and recall conversation context, supporting workflows that require the tool to remember important details across multiple steps. Alongside this, rules support has arrived through the familiar .windsurfrules file, so users can fine-tune AI behavior based on custom guidelines.

Cascade also integrates Model Context Protocol (MCP), enabling JetBrains instances to connect with local MCP servers to access data from various sources. Building on these changes, a new Continue button lets users confirm when the AI is following the right direction after a pause for feedback. However, each feedback action—using the new button included—still uses a prompt credit, typically after about 20 steps. The model selector interface is now redesigned, making it easier to browse models by provider or cost, and includes helpful recommendations.

Workspace-to-conversation mapping now filters conversation histories per workspace and prompts users to switch for accurate file referencing. Users can also edit terminal commands suggested by Windsurf Editor before running them. Additional updates deliver improved code block visuals across themes, better code hunk navigation, and, in chat mode, Cascade now proposes full file content when suggesting a new file.