#16078·helix

insert-output does not perform parameter expansion when invoked with `!`

Author: FBemfCreated Jul 21, 2026Updated Sep 7, 2026
LabelsC-bug

Summary

:insert-output does not respect %-expansions when you invoke it with the ! key.

Reproduction Steps

Press the following keys in a new hx instance:

  • :insert-output echo %{buffer_name}<return>. Result: [scratch].
  • !echo %{buffer_name}<return>. Result: %{buffer_name}.

Expected behaviour: Result should be [scratch] in both cases, as the ! shortcut for :insert-output should treat expansions the same way the :insert-output command does.

Helix log

Reproduction steps do not produce any logs.

Platform

macOS

Terminal Emulator

iTerm 2 + tmux

Installation Method

homebrew

Helix Version

helix 25.07.1 (a05c151b)