FlameGraph AR: Immersive Visualization of CPU Profiles in Augmented Reality

Abstract

Performance analysis is essential to identify bottlenecks and improve software responsiveness. Flame graphs are widely used for this purpose, offering compact summaries of stack traces and execution times. However, as applications grow, flame graphs become large and dense, competing for space within IDEs already crowded with code editors and panels. We propose FlameGraph AR, a tool that offloads flame graph visualizations from the IDE to the physical environment using augmented reality. By integrating a Visual Studio Code extension with an AR application, developers can arrange interactive flame graphs on desks, walls, or in peripheral view. This immersive setup expands visualization space, supports gesturebased interaction, and enables parallel performance analysis without disrupting the coding flow.Video URL: https://vimeo.com/1089364433/e41cfa13c4