Upgraded console experience on Windows Mac and Linux
Proposed Enhancements: Integrated Console for macOS and Linux:
Implement a native macOS Terminal and Linux Terminal integration where clicking "Toggle System Console" automatically opens the system's default terminal: macOS: Launch Terminal.app. Linux: Open the default terminal emulator (e.g., Ubuntu Terminal). Streamlined Console Access – "Show Console" Button:
The current "Toggle System Console" feels outdated because most users don’t want to repeatedly access a dropdown menu just to toggle the console. I implemented a "Show Console" feature in my own add-on, and it's a dream to work with—far better than the Windows console toggle. It's much easier to click once to show the terminal and then simply click off it when you no longer need it. This "Show Console" button should be added alongside the current console toggle, functioning as a separate operator that only brings up the terminal when needed, without requiring toggling back and forth. If You Prefer the Current Toggle System:
If there's a reason you prefer the current "Toggle System Console" design, then consider adding both options: Keep the Toggle Console for consistency. Add a "Show Console" button next to it for quick and direct terminal access. I’m sure developers would be much happier with both options available, especially for debugging and add-on development. Windows Terminal Consideration: On Windows, regardless of whether Blender is opened via Blender.exe or a launcher like Blender Launcher.exe, the Windows Terminal should always be used instead of Command Prompt (cmd.exe). Windows Terminal offers a more modern and beautiful interface, and as someone who has been developing Blender add-ons for a long time, I have never encountered a situation where cmd.exe was preferable. In fact, cmd.exe often feels like a hindrance when accidentally opened via Blender Launcher.exe, while Windows Terminal provides a far superior user experience for debugging. Why This Matters: Consistent Cross-Platform Behavior: Makes Windows, macOS, and Linux behave the same way when accessing the console. Simplified Debugging: Easier visibility of debug output without disruptive menu navigation. Aesthetics and Modern UX: The Ubuntu Terminal, macOS Terminal, and Windows Terminal all provide modern interfaces that better match Blender's design philosophy.
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