GitHub Copilot
Coding assistant right in the editor: completes code as you type, answers questions and makes changes as an agent.
What it does
Copilot suggests the next lines or entire functions while you code, explains unfamiliar code and answers questions in a chat beside the editor. In agent mode it plans changes across several files, runs tests and corrects itself based on error messages. On GitHub itself it helps with pull requests and code reviews. Depending on the plan, several language models are available.
Who it suits
Development teams already working on GitHub who want to keep their usual editor. Especially helpful for routine work: tests, refactoring, documentation, boilerplate.
Data protection for businesses
Since April 2026, GitHub uses prompts and code snippets from the Free, Pro, Pro+ and Max plans for training by default; you can switch this off in your Copilot settings via the option “Allow GitHub to use my data for AI model training”. Business and Enterprise are contractually excluded and covered by GitHub’s data processing agreement. EU data residency is available through GitHub Enterprise Cloud with data residency, with some restrictions there.
Limits
The free plan is tightly capped; usage beyond the allowance is billed separately. Suggestions can contain outdated patterns or security flaws – review and tests remain essential.