Extend defineProps macro to support defineModel-like behavior via ref destructuring

[vzakharov]

Summary

Now that destructuring props in <script setup> retains reactivity in Vue 3.5+, it opens the door for a more elegant syntax for prop-modeling. I'd like to propose extending the defineProps macro to support defineModel-like behavior when destructuring into a ref.

Example

Instead of this:

const text = defineModel('text', { required: true, default: '' });

We could write:

const { text = ref('') } = defineProps<{ text: string }>();

Under the hood, the macro would infer that text is a model because:

• It's a ref
• It came from defineProps

Why?

• Cleaner, more idiomatic syntax
• Less macro sprawl (defineModel becomes unnecessary in many cases)
• Reduces boilerplate while remaining explicit
• The API for using the ref remains the same (text.value = 'Hello world').
• Aligns with the new prop destructuring improvements

Why Not?

The only real downside is additional magic in an already magical part of Vue. But given that defineProps already has macro behaviors, this feels consistent with its trajectory—and arguably more intuitive for developers familiar with both props and v-model.

Closing

This is a small tweak that could make the developer experience smoother, especially in components that heavily use v-model. Eager to hear everyone’s feedback!