sindresorhus/electron-debug

Allow applying debug() to already existing windows

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#92 opened on Jun 10, 2025

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enhancementhelp wanted

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Description

Since debug only works for future windows, it would be nice to apply the configuration in a retroactive way, so it doesn't depend on the call order (i.e. debug() is called from a plugin or extension out of control).

It also provides another improvement: when using windowSelector it would allow to filter by window reference, not by only its attributes, so this will be possible:

const win = createWindow();
debug({ windowSelector: (w => w === win) });

Implementation would be at the same level than registering the listener for future windows, but iterating on the already existing windows.

Contributor guide

Research direction
Implement the retroactive debug application by modifying the code in index.js around line 111 where listeners are registered for future windows. Iterate over existing windows using BrowserWindow.getAllWindows() and apply the debug configuration. Consider supporting windowSelector with a function reference to allow window reference comparison.
Tech stack
javascriptelectron
Domain
developer experience
Issue type
Feature
DifficultyEstimated implementation difficulty for a new contributor, from 1 for very small changes to 5 for expert-level work.
3
Estimated timeA rough time range for an experienced contributor to investigate, implement, test, and prepare a pull request.
Half day
Activity statusHow available the issue appears right now: fresh, active, stale, blocked, or waiting on maintainer input.
Fresh
ClarityHow clearly the issue explains the expected change, acceptance criteria, and next step.
Clear
Prerequisites
Familiarity with Electron app lifecycleBasic JavaScript knowledge
Newbie friendlinessA 1-100 score estimating how approachable this issue is for first-time contributors.
60