Microsoft is providing early access to C++ code editing tools for GitHub Copilot via the Visual Studio 2026 Insiders channel. These C++ tools allow GitHub Copilot to go beyond file searches and unlock greater context-aware refactoring that enables changes across multiple files and sections, according to Microsoft.

Public availability was announced December 16, with the blog also offering instructions on getting started with the tools. The C++ code editing tools for Copilot had been made available in a private preview on November 12.

Microsoft said the C++ code editing tools offer rich context for any symbol in a project, enabling Copilot agent mode to view all references across a code base, understand metadata such as type, scope, and declaration, visualize class inheritance hierarchies, and trace function call chains. These capabilities help Copilot accomplish complex C++ editing tasks with greater accuracy and speed.

Future plans call for expanding the C++ editing tools support to other GitHub Copilot surfaces, such as Visual Studio Code, to further empower agent-driven edits for C++. Additionally, Microsoft seeks feedback on how to improve the C++ tools experience. Users can report problems or suggest improvements through the Visual Studio feedback icon.