An introduction to the new GitHub Copilot CLI

Key Concepts

• Copilot CLI: A command-line interface tool designed to act as a coding partner for developers.
• GitHub MCP server: A server component automatically installed by Copilot CLI, likely facilitating its AI-powered coding assistance.
• MCP server: A general term for a server that can be integrated with Copilot CLI, allowing for custom or project-specific configurations.
• WSL (Windows Subsystem for Linux): A compatibility layer for running Linux binary executables natively on Windows.
• IntelliJ: A popular integrated development environment (IDE) primarily for Java, but also supporting other languages.
• VS Code (Visual Studio Code): A free source-code editor made by Microsoft, supporting various programming languages and tools.
• Git: A distributed version control system for tracking changes in source code during software development.
• /mcp command: A specific command within Copilot CLI used to add additional MCP servers.

Introduction and Purpose of Copilot CLI

The video introduces Copilot CLI, positioning it as a versatile coding partner designed to "meet developers where they work best." The core purpose of Copilot CLI is to integrate AI-powered coding assistance directly into the command-line environment, catering to developers who prefer or frequently use the terminal for their work.

Platform Compatibility and User Rationale

Copilot CLI is highlighted for its broad compatibility, supporting major operating systems including Linux, Mac OS, and Windows via WSL (Windows Subsystem for Linux). The speaker emphasizes a personal preference for the command-line interface, stating, "I kind of like live in the terminal, so it just seems like a natural place for me to be doing my work in the terminal as well." This perspective underscores the tool's appeal to developers who are comfortable and efficient in a terminal-centric workflow, especially those who manage version control systems like Git through the command line, even when using various IDEs such as IntelliJ and VS Code.

MCP Server Integration and Customization

A key technical detail of Copilot CLI is its integration with MCP servers. Upon installation, Copilot CLI automatically sets up the GitHub MCP server. For users or organizations requiring more tailored solutions, the tool provides functionality to add "additional MCP servers." This is achieved using the specific /mcp command within the Copilot CLI. The speaker notes the potential for "our own MCP servers that can help work with projects and our own technology," indicating a capability for custom, project-specific, or enterprise-level integration of Copilot's functionalities.

Availability and Call to Action

Copilot CLI is announced as "available now," with a clear call to action for developers to "Go try it." The video concludes with an expression of anticipation: "We cannot wait to see what you build," encouraging the developer community to explore and innovate with the new tool.

Conclusion

Copilot CLI is presented as a significant extension of the Copilot ecosystem, bringing AI-driven coding assistance directly to the command line. Its cross-platform compatibility, automatic GitHub MCP server installation, and the flexibility to integrate custom MCP servers via the /mcp command make it a powerful tool for developers who prefer terminal-based workflows. The emphasis is on meeting developers in their preferred environment and empowering them to build innovative solutions.