Github Copilot CLI: NEW AI Coding Agent is Quite Powerful, Fast, & Free! (Beats ClaudeCode)

Key Concepts

• GitHub Copilot CLI: A command-line interface tool that brings AI-powered coding assistance to the terminal.
• AI Agents: Software entities that can automate tasks and workflows.
• Spec-Driven Development: A development approach where code generation is driven by specifications.
• Contextual Codebase Analysis: The ability of the CLI to understand and analyze the entire codebase for better code generation and debugging.
• Free Tier: A free access level that provides a limited number of code completions and chat requests per month.

1. Introduction to GitHub Copilot CLI

• GitHub has launched GitHub Copilot CLI in public preview, entering the CLI race.
• The tool allows developers to build, debug, and deploy using the GitHub Copilot coding agent directly from the terminal.
• It aims to make development faster and smoother by bringing AI-powered coding assistance to the command line.
• The CLI integrates seamlessly into workflows for prototyping, debugging, and deploying.
• It supports terminal-native deployment, allowing direct interaction with the Copilot coding agent.
• Integration with IDEs like Zed, VS Code, and Cursor is possible.
• Out-of-the-box GitHub integration provides access to repositories directly from the CLI.
• Capabilities include building, editing, debugging, and refactoring code with AI.
• It offers NCP support and full context of the codebase.

2. Access and Pricing

• The Copilot CLI is in public preview and subject to change.
• Access is available with GitHub Copilot Pro, Pro Plus, Business, and Enterprise plans.
• A free tier offers up to 2,000 code completions and 50 chat premium requests per month, providing access to Cloud 4.5 Sonnet.
• Users can configure other models directly with the CLI.

3. Integration with Spec-Driven Development Toolkit

• The CLI can be easily integrated with GitHub's open-source spec-driven development toolkit.
• This integration enhances the code generation process.

4. HubSpot's Guide on AI Agents

• HubSpot offers a free guide titled "Master AI Agents in 2025: The Strategic Advantage."
• The guide reveals where to start with AI agents, which applications deliver real value, and how to implement them without replacing jobs.
• It covers automating marketing workflows with AI-powered content creation and analytics.
• It also discusses accelerating sales with smart prospect research and follow-ups.
• The guide explains streamlining operations with agents that handle documentation and real-time analytics.
• An implementation blueprint is provided for deploying and measuring AI agents for immediate ROI.

5. Prerequisites and Installation

• Supported platforms include Linux, macOS, and Windows.
• Prerequisites:
  • Node.js version 22 or above.
  • npm installed.
  • PowerShell V6 or higher (for Windows).
  • A GitHub Copilot account (free or paid).
• Installation steps:
  1. Open the command prompt.
  2. Install the CLI globally using the command: npm install -g github-copilot-cli.
  3. Launch the CLI using the copilot command.

6. Authentication and Usage

• The CLI requires authentication with a GitHub Copilot plan.
• Users need to log in through the terminal and grant permissions.
• The CLI maintains a constant data connection to GitHub repositories.
• The / command within the terminal provides a list of available commands and instructions.
• The CLI excels at contextual codebase analysis, allowing it to thoroughly understand the project.

7. Agent Testing: Building a Browser-Based Operating System

• A complex prompt was used to test the CLI's capabilities: creating a browser-based operating system with many features.
• This prompt assesses the model's design skills, full-stack knowledge, and coding capabilities.
• The CLI was able to generate the code for the operating system using the Cloud for Sonnet model.
• The generated operating system includes features like:
  • Authentication.
  • Clock and battery indicators.
  • Volume control.
  • Text editor.
  • File management system.
  • Web browser.
  • Calculator.
  • Media player.
  • Image viewer.
  • Task list.
  • Terminal.

8. Evaluation and Conclusion

• The GitHub Copilot CLI is a competent coding agent, capable of refactoring and debugging code.
• Its value depends on individual preferences, as other coding agents perform similarly.
• The free tier provides a decent number of generations for users with limited funds or those wanting to try it out.
• The presenter encourages viewers to support the channel through donations or by joining the private Discord.

Key Takeaways

The GitHub Copilot CLI is a promising tool that brings AI-powered coding assistance to the command line. It offers a free tier for experimentation and integrates well with existing workflows and IDEs. While its performance is comparable to other coding agents, its contextual codebase analysis and integration with GitHub repositories make it a valuable asset for developers. The demonstration of building a browser-based operating system showcases its potential for complex code generation tasks.