In this video, GitHub demonstrates the practical differences between Copilot coding agent and agent mode. Presented by GitHub, it guides viewers on choosing the right Copilot feature for automating tasks or enhancing interactive software development.

When to Use GitHub Copilot Coding Agent Versus Agent Mode

Author: GitHub

Overview

This video breaks down the two major agentic capabilities available in GitHub Copilot:

  • Copilot Coding Agent: Best suited for autonomous, background tasks such as issue assignment and repetitive work like testing migration.
  • Copilot Agent Mode: Geared towards interactive, iterative development, allowing developers to work alongside Copilot in a collaborative manner, such as building and refining a game in real time.

Key Demonstrations

The content is structured around practical, real-world examples:

00:00 - Assign Issue to Copilot Coding Agent

  • Demonstrates how to allocate a tedious testing migration task to the Copilot coding agent, which works autonomously in the background without user intervention.
  • This frees up the developer’s time and enables focus on more engaging or creative activities.

00:19 - Use Copilot Agent Mode to Create a New Game

  • Shifts focus to Copilot Agent Mode, showcasing how it facilitates interactive application development.
  • The user can actively guide and iterate on project features in a collaborative dialog with the agent.
  • Especially useful for tasks requiring frequent decision-making, iteration, and developer input.

01:53 - Review Copilot Coding Agent’s Work

  • Reviews the output produced by the Copilot coding agent on the earlier assigned testing migration.
  • Demonstrates division of labor and improved workflow efficiency by combining both Copilot capabilities.

Practical Takeaways

  • Copilot Coding Agent excels at offloading repeating, resource-intensive tasks.
  • Copilot Agent Mode shines in creative, iterative, and interactive software development scenarios.
  • Developers can strategically choose which mode matches their workflow: delegating monotonous work to Copilot’s autonomous features and reserving their own time for high-value tasks.

Keep Informed

For ongoing updates about GitHub Copilot and related tools:

About GitHub

GitHub is the platform of choice for more than 100 million developers to create, share, and deliver software.