GitHub unwanted UX change: issue links now open in a popup

GitHub introduced an unwanted UX change where issue links open in popup overlays instead of navigating directly to the issue, significantly disrupting developer workflows and breaking integrations with AI agents and automation tools. This change, intended to improve load times for cross-repo links, generated substantial user backlash due to its deviation from standard web link behavior and lack of configuration options. GitHub has acknowledged the negative impact and committed to reverting the change, highlighting the risks of deploying platform changes without adequate user testing and opt-in mechanisms.