Microsoft Makes GitHub Copilot Chat for VS Code Completely Free and Open-Source

GitHub Copilot Chat Now Open-Source and Free for All Developers

Microsoft has open-sourced the GitHub Copilot Chat extension for Visual Studio Code (VS Code), freeing a formerly premium AI coding assistant for all developers at no cost. Released under the MIT license, the full feature set that once required a subscription is now accessible to everyone, marking a significant step in democratizing AI-powered development tools.

Core Features of the Extension

The extension, hosted on GitHub at microsoft/vscode-copilot-chat, comprises four main components:

Agent Mode: Automating Complex Coding Processes

Agent Mode can autonomously manage multi-step coding tasks, going beyond simple autocomplete. It can diagnose compile-time errors, rerun tests, and iterate on changes until the desired results are delivered. For example, a request like “Implement a caching layer for this API call” is broken down into subtasks such as creating a cache interface, integrating caching libraries, and wiring it into the existing service logic. It self-corrects and adapts without manual input.

Edit Mode: Natural Language Multi-File Editing

Edit Mode allows developers to make structured edits across multiple files using natural language commands. A prompt such as “Add logging to all HTTP requests” results in consistent modifications throughout different modules, including function wrappers or instrumentation logic. A live preview shows changes as diffs, enabling selective application and speeding up repetitive or cross-cutting edits.

Code Suggestions: Context-Aware Completion

Unlike traditional autocompletion, the Code Suggestions feature uses the current file context, project structure, and developer style to predict meaningful code completions. Suggestions appear seamlessly and can be accepted quickly, making coding more fluid whether writing boilerplate, refactoring, or creating new modules.

Chat Integration: In-IDE Contextual Support

The in-editor chat interface lets developers ask code-specific questions without leaving VS Code. It understands the project’s files, dependencies, and structure, providing inline answers to queries like “Why is this test failing?” or “What does this function do?” This supports just-in-time documentation, debugging, and architectural guidance.

Impact on the Developer Community

Open-sourcing Copilot Chat under the MIT license enables self-hosting and customization, allowing developers and organizations to tailor the extension to their workflows or environments. It also invites contributions from the open-source community to enhance features and performance or integrate with other language model backends.

This move democratizes access to advanced AI development tools, especially benefiting developers in education or underfunded sectors who previously faced subscription barriers.

Microsoft’s decision transforms Copilot Chat from a gated, premium product into a freely accessible, extensible foundation for intelligent coding workflows, enhancing speed, intelligence, and collaboration within VS Code.