VSIX Explorer

VSIX Explorer provides a WinZip-like utilitiy for creating, viewing, and editing VSIX files.  VSIX files are the new deployment units for Visual Studio 2010 extensions.  To launch the tool after install, go to the Tools menu and click on VSIX Explorer.

VSIX Explorer runs independently of VS so you can create a shortcut to the program directly.  It will be located at %LocalAppData%\Microsoft\VisualStudio\10.0\Extensions\Gearard Boland and Mariano Blanco\VSIX Explorer\<version>VSIXExplorer.exe.  The only caveat is that if updates are installed the shortcut link will break due to the version change in the path, which you would then have to update.

RTM Updates:

• Support for managing references
• Command-line support to directly open VSIX
• Drag/Drop support to open VSIX
• Support opening VSIX that contain invalid manifests
• Fixed a few reported bugs, including some validation changes 

RC Updates: 

• Updated to support the formal SKU branding in the generated VSIX files.
• Removal of Apply Changes button in the manifest editor views.  Your changes are automatically applied whenever focus changes.
• New & Improved icons!
• Ability to view the language pack manifests in XML view.
• Enable resizing of the window, as well as a few fixes for a few other layout issues.
• Enable closing of Validation results.
• Enable renaming of nodes and files in your VSIX package.

Beta 2 Updates:

• Major updates to the manifest editor to support modifying the Content, References, and License sections.
• Added Validation support (Action | Validate) to verify the contents of your VSIX file.
• Added support to include VSIX Language Packs (Action | Add | Localized Resource) and view their manifests.
• Tons of bug fixes!  Be sure to report any others that you find.