Microsoft is giving developers early access to new C++ editing features for GitHub Copilot through the Visual Studio 2026 Insiders channel. These tools aim to make coding in C++ faster and more accurate by providing smarter, context-aware assistance. The public launch was announced on December 16, along with instructions on how to start using the new features.

Enhanced Context and Refactoring Capabilities

The C++ tools for GitHub Copilot go beyond simple code suggestions. They enable Copilot to understand the bigger picture within a project, offering more advanced editing support. For example, Copilot can now view all references to a symbol across multiple files, making it easier to understand how different parts of the code interact.

Developers can also visualize class inheritance hierarchies and trace function call chains. This rich context helps Copilot perform complex refactoring tasks more accurately and quickly. The tools are designed to support changes that span multiple files and sections, saving time and reducing errors during development.

Private Preview and Future Plans

The new C++ editing features were first available in a private preview starting November 12, giving select users a chance to test them out. Microsoft is now opening the tools to a wider audience via the Visual Studio Insiders channel, with plans to expand support to other platforms like Visual Studio Code.

Microsoft also encourages user feedback to improve the tools. Developers can report issues or suggest enhancements using the feedback feature within Visual Studio. The company intends to keep refining the experience based on real user input and expand support for C++ editing across more GitHub Copilot surfaces.

This move aims to empower C++ developers with smarter, more capable AI-assisted coding, making complex editing tasks faster and less error-prone. As the tools evolve, they could become a key part of the workflow for many software teams working in C++.

Inspired by

• https://www.infoworld.com/article/4110748/microsoft-previews-c-plus-plus-code-editing-tools-for-github-copilot.html

Sources

• microsoft.com
• microsoft.com
• microsoft.com