GitHub Copilot Review 2026: The AI Assistant That Works Everywhere

What Is GitHub Copilot?

GitHub Copilot is an AI coding assistant developed by GitHub (Microsoft). First released in 2021, it was the tool that introduced most developers to AI-assisted coding. It operates primarily as an editor extension with support for VS Code, JetBrains, Neovim, Vim, Xcode, Visual Studio, Eclipse, and more — the broadest editor support of any AI coding tool. Users can choose between GPT, Claude, and Gemini models.

What Sets It Apart

Copilot’s editor support is unmatched. If you use a non-VS Code editor — JetBrains, Neovim, Vim, Xcode — Copilot is likely the only full-featured AI coding assistant available to you. This breadth means teams with diverse editor preferences can standardize on a single AI tool without forcing anyone to switch editors.

Deep GitHub integration is the other major advantage. PR summaries, code review suggestions, issue references, and CLI assistance feel like native platform features rather than add-ons. For teams whose entire workflow runs on GitHub, this integration compounds in value. The Pro plan with unlimited completions also offers strong value at its price point for individual developers.

Multi-file agentic editing has been improving but still trails dedicated AI editors like Cursor in orchestrating complex cross-file changes. The free tier is limited enough to function as a trial rather than a sustainable plan for daily development.

Who It’s For

• Teams already using GitHub for source control, CI/CD, and code review
• Developers who use JetBrains, Vim, Xcode, or other non-VS Code editors
• Enterprise teams that need IP indemnity and compliance controls
• Individual developers who want solid AI assistance at a competitive price
• Developers who need advanced multi-file agentic editing may prefer Cursor

Sources

• GitHub Copilot
• GitHub Copilot Documentation
• GitHub Copilot Pricing