GitHub Copilot CLI Adds Plan Mode and GPT-5.2-Codex in Major Update

GitHub shipped a considerable replace to Copilot CLI on January 21, 2026, introducing plan mode—a characteristic that lets builders collaborate with the AI earlier than any code will get written. The replace additionally brings GPT-5.2-Codex and session administration instruments that successfully remove context window limitations.

Plan mode addresses a persistent frustration with AI coding assistants: they typically begin implementing earlier than totally understanding the duty. Press Shift + Tab to enter plan mode, the place Copilot analyzes your request, asks clarifying questions on scope, and builds a structured implementation plan. You evaluate and approve earlier than a single line of code seems.

The brand new ask_user instrument powers this conversational strategy, prompting for enter on design selections and confirming assumptions. Consider it as a technical spec session with an AI that truly listens.

GPT-5.2-Codex and Reasoning Controls

The newest Codex mannequin optimized for code technology is now obtainable by way of the /mannequin command or –model gpt-5.2-codex flag. GitHub added configurable reasoning effort for GPT fashions with prolonged pondering capabilities, letting builders stability response velocity towards reasoning depth.

Ctrl + T toggles visibility of the mannequin’s reasoning steps throughout technology. The setting persists throughout classes—helpful for understanding how Copilot approaches advanced issues or debugging surprising outputs.

Infinite Classes and Actual-Time Steering

Auto-compaction kicks in when conversations hit 95% of the token restrict, compressing historical past within the background with out interruption. Handbook compression is obtainable by way of /compact, and /context reveals detailed token utilization breakdown.

Builders can now queue extra messages whereas Copilot is pondering—ship follow-up directions or steer the dialog with out ready. When rejecting a instrument permission request, inline suggestions helps Copilot adapt its strategy quite than halting completely.

Code Assessment and Reminiscence

The /evaluate command analyzes staged or unstaged modifications straight within the terminal. Copilot additionally now shops conventions, patterns, and preferences it learns throughout classes, making future interactions extra productive.

GitHub Copilot has been activated by over a million builders and adopted by greater than 20,000 organizations since launch. The CLI entered public beta in November 2023, with studies indicating roughly 30% of coding solutions get accepted.

Replace by way of brew improve copilot-cli, winget improve GitHub.Copilot, or npm set up -g @github/copilot@newest. GitHub CLI customers can run gh copilot to get began—first-time use prompts computerized set up.

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