What it does
Copilot for Xcode is an extension for Xcode, Apple's app for building iPhone and Mac software. It brings AI coding help into the editor.
It offers code suggestions as you type, a chat for asking questions about code, and a way to change code by describing what you want. You can also create your own custom commands.
Suggestions need a GitHub Copilot subscription or a Codeium account, and the chat features need an OpenAI API key or access to another AI model.
Who it's for
Apple developers who write code in Xcode and want AI assistance.
Can I use it without coding?
With some setup. You install a Mac app and then turn on the extension and grant permissions in system settings. New to this? Start here.
Can I run it?
- Cost
- Free, but needs an AI accountThe software is free, but it uses an online AI service (like OpenAI or Anthropic), which usually charges for use.
- Runs on
- Mac
- Computer
- An ordinary computer is fine
- Privacy
- Sends what you give it to an online service
- API key
- Needed. An API key is a password-like code from an online AI service. What's that?
Try it
- Download the app from the project's releases page, or install it with Homebrew.
- Turn on the extension in your Mac's settings and grant the permissions the README lists.
- Sign in to GitHub Copilot or Codeium, or add an OpenAI key, to start getting suggestions.
Using Claude Code, Cursor or another AI coding assistant? Paste the prompt and it will walk you through the setup.New to this?
Before you install
- Only download from the official GitHub page or the official download page above. Copies with similar names exist for many popular projects.
- License (MIT): Very permissive: free to use, change and share, including for business.
- Keep your API key private. Never paste it into websites or share it, and set a spending limit with the AI service.
- What you type or upload is sent to an online service. Avoid sharing private or sensitive information.
- More on staying safe