is an AI-powered coding assistant developed by GitHub and OpenAI that helps developers write code faster and with less effort. It provides real-time code suggestions, generates entire functions from comments, and assists with debugging and code explanations. Available across popular IDEs like Visual Studio Code, Visual Studio, JetBrains, and Neovim, Copilot is now integrated directly into GitHub, enabling seamless workflows.
Key Features
Copilot Chat: Ask natural language questions about code, get explanations, or request fixes directly in your IDE or on GitHub.
Coding Agent (2025): Assign GitHub issues to Copilot, which autonomously creates a draft pull request by analyzing the codebase, running tests, and pushing changes—requiring human approval before merging.
Copilot CLI: Use Copilot from the command line to generate code, manage pull requests, or interact with GitHub repositories.
Model Choice (2024+): Users can choose between multiple large language models, including GPT-4, Claude 3.5 Sonnet, Gemini 2.0 Flash, and others.
Spaces & Context: Organize project-specific context (code, docs, specs) in Copilot Spaces to improve response relevance.
Pricing & Access
GitHub Copilot Free: A new limited-tier plan for individual developers (no subscription required), but with reduced functionality.
Copilot Pro: $10/month, includes unlimited requests, premium models, agent mode, and enhanced features.
Copilot Pro+: $20/month, adds advanced features like code review suggestions and enterprise-grade security.
Copilot Business & Enterprise: For teams and organizations, with centralized policy management and compliance controls.
Recent Updates (2026)
On March 14, 2026, GitHub updated its pricing page, confirming the Copilot Free tier and clarifying eligibility.
March 13, 2026: The GitHub Copilot website was updated with new content on AI-powered development.
March 17, 2026: Students are facing backlash after GitHub removed premium AI models from the free Student plan, prompting concerns about reduced access to advanced AI capabilities.
Getting Started
Install via the Visual Studio Marketplace, JetBrains Plugin, or GitHub’s official site.
Start with Copilot Free or try Pro for 30 days.
Use the Quickstart guide on GitHub Docs to set up Copilot in your IDE or terminal.
For full details, visit: github.com/features/copilot
Is GitHub copilot taking over?
Is Github Copilot worth it?
Is it okay to use ChatGPT or GitHub Copilot for real dev work and professional projects?
anyone here still using GITHUB copilot over newer ai’s?
What is included in GitHub Copilot Free?
GitHub Copilot Free users are limited to 2000 completions and 50 chat requests (including Copilot Edits).
What if I do not want GitHub Copilot?
GitHub Copilot is entirely optional and requires you to opt in before gaining access. You can easily configure its usage directly in the editor, enabling or disabling it at any time. Additionally, you have control over which file types GitHub Copilot is active for.
How can I upgrade my GitHub Copilot Free license to Copilot Pro?
If you're on the Free plan, you can upgrade to Pro through your Copilot settings page or directly on the Copilot marketing page.