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GitHub Copilot is an AI pair programmer that proposes full lines of code and full functions directly in your editor. It helps make programming faster and more fun by reducing mundane coding tasks.
Although Copilot was originally designed for Visual Studio Code, there are ways to integrate it into other editors such as Xcode as well. In this guide, we’ll go through the entire process of installing and setting up GitHub Copilot to work within Xcode.
See more: How to use Copilot in Xcode?
How to install Copilot on Xcode?
Before installing Copilot, you will need:
- Xcode – The latest version installed. Copilot is currently compatible with Xcode 14 and higher.
- Node.js – Version 18.7.0 or higher recommended. Required for the CopilotForXcode extension.
- Brew it yourself – Used to easily install dependencies and extensions.
Step 1 – Install Node.js
If you don’t already have Node.js on your system, install the latest LTS version using Homebrew:
brew install nodeVerify that Node is installed correctly:
node -vThis should return the installed version, such as v18.7.0.
Step 2 – Install the CopilotForXcode extension
Use Homebrew to install the CopilotForXcode extension:
brew install --cask copilot-for-xcodeThis will automatically download and install the extension.
Step 3 – Open CopilotForXcode
Open your Launchpad and locate the CopilotForXcode app icon. Start the application.
This is the main interface we will use to connect GitHub Copilot and manage its integration into Xcode.
Step 4 – Install the required components
Within CopilotForXcode, go to the “Service” tab. Under the GitHub Copilot section you will see options to install:
- Copilot.Vim
- Language server
Click “Install” on both and let them complete. This sets up additional processes required for Copilot functionality.
Step 5 – Sign in to GitHub Copilot
Still on the Service tab in CopilotForXcode, scroll down and click the “Sign In” button under GitHub Copilot GitHub Plugin.
A browser window will open where you can sign in to your GitHub account and authorize Copilot. Follow the directions until you are done.
Linking your GitHub account gives Copilot access to your public and private code to improve suggestions.
Step 6 – Check the Copilot installation
You can now open Xcode to confirm that GitHub Copilot is working correctly:
- Open a project and start editing a Swift file
- Type // followed by a space
- Copilot suggestions should appear!
Customize GitHub Copilot
Now that GitHub Copilot is enabled in Xcode, you can customize the experience to your preferences.
Also Read: LogoAI Review: Uses, Features, Pricing
Keyboard shortcuts
Set up useful keyboard shortcuts for common Copilot actions:
Code → Insert Suggestion⌘ + . → Accept Suggestion⌘ + ' → Toggle SuggestionsUI adjustments
Adjust the user interface, such as suggested font size and color, under the “Appearance” section.
Privacy settings
Manage which code Copilot can access under ‘Privacy’ settings. You can revoke account access or restrict it to public/private repositories.
Take some time to explore all of CopilotForXcode’s options to optimize GitHub Copilot for the way you work.
Troubleshoot GitHub Copilot issues
If you’re having issues with GitHub Copilot functionality not working as expected in Xcode, here are some things you can try:
Make sure the extension is enabled
Make sure the Xcode Source Editor extension is enabled in System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Privacy > Extensions.
Update API keys
Open CopilotForXcode, click on the “Keys” tab and make sure you have entered valid Copilot API keys from OpenAI. Provide new keys if necessary.
View logs
The “Console” tab in CopilotForXcode shows useful debug logs for troubleshooting missing connections or integrations.
Check for updates
The developers may have already fixed an issue you are experiencing in a newer release. Update extensions and components to the latest versions.
Don’t hesitate to also check the CopilotForXcode repository issues page on GitHub for advice from other users on possible issues and solutions.
Conclusion
Now that the power of AI is available directly in Xcode, you can code faster and smarter using GitHub Copilot suggestions. Installing Copilot does require jumping through a few extra hoops since it’s not built exclusively for Xcode, but the end result is worth it.
As Copilot and its integrations continue to develop, the installation process will hopefully become even more seamless. But for now, following this guide should keep GitHub Copilot running smoothly throughout your Xcode development.
The AI assistant promises not only to increase productivity, but also to make programming more fun. Now go out, fire up Xcode and experience the future of coding!
🌟 Do you have burning questions about a “Copilot On Xcode”? Do you need some extra help with AI tools or something else?
💡 Feel free to email Pradip Maheshwari, our expert at OpenAIMaster. Send your questions to support@openaimaster.com and Pradip Maheshwari will be happy to help you!