Sync File Explorer with Terminal Working Directory

[DrownedMala]

TL;DR

Automatically update Windsurf's file explorer view to match the current working directory when navigating in the terminal (e.g., using cd commands), creating a seamless integration between terminal and GUI navigation.

Description

Currently, Windsurf's file explorer maintains its own directory state independent of the integrated terminal's working directory. This feature request proposes synchronizing the file explorer's focused directory with the terminal's current working directory (cwd).

Use Case

• When users navigate between directories in the terminal using commands like cd, the file explorer should automatically update to show the contents of that directory
• This creates a more cohesive experience between terminal-based and GUI-based file navigation
• Reduces context switching and cognitive load when working with files through both interfaces

Proposed Behavior

When a user changes directory in the terminal (e.g., using cd command), the file explorer should:

• Update its view to show the new directory
• Expand the directory tree to make the current path visible
• Highlight/select the current directory

Benefits

• Improved workflow efficiency
• Better integration between terminal and GUI interfaces
• Reduced need to manually sync navigation between terminal and file explorer
• More intuitive file management experience

Technical Considerations

• Need to monitor terminal's pwd/cwd changes
• Handle multiple terminal instances
• Consider performance impact of continuous directory monitoring
• Handle edge cases like non-existent or inaccessible directories
• Ensure proper handling of symbolic links and mounted directories

Innovation Potential

This feature would set Windsurf apart from other IDEs by providing seamless integration between terminal-based and GUI-based file navigation, addressing a common workflow friction point that currently exists in most development environments.

(Yes, I did use codeium AI to write this one, just to try, but it'd be a nice addition! If it is redundant, sorry!)