Xcode 27.3 adds GitHub Copilot to Apple's built-in coding assistant

[Heatsink]

Apple developers have another AI option inside Xcode. 9to5Mac reports that Xcode 27.3 beta 1, released on 3 November, adds GitHub Copilot to the built in coding assistant

The release notes simply state that GitHub Copilot is now available in the coding assistant. It joins ChatGPT, Claude, OpenAI Codex, Claude Agent and Google Gemini, which were added in Xcode 27

Other new features include drag and drop app installation in Device Hub, updates to the RenderPreview MCP tool, UI tests written with Swift Testing, and a new XCUIHinge class for setting hinge angles on the iPhone Duo

Xcode 27.3 ships with Swift 6.4 and the 27.3 SDKs, needs macOS Tahoe 26.6 or later, and the final release is expected in December. The article gives no details on which Copilot model is used or pricing, and a known issue means CarPlay in Device Hub needs a USB connection

Giving developers a choice of AI assistants inside Xcode is a sensible approach, because different models suit different tasks. Many developers already pay for Copilot through work, so this removes a reason to switch editors. Apple's openness here is a little surprising but welcome

Which AI coding assistant do you prefer? And should Apple build its own coding model?

Xcode 27.3 adds GitHub Copilot to its built-in coding assistant - 9to5Mac9to5mac.com

[Quarry44]

Swift Testing for UI tests is a nice improvement. The old testing framework was clunky. Modern tools make testing less painful

[FridayFeeling19]

Copilot in Xcode is great news for developers who already pay for it. No need to switch to another editor. Apple is listening

Developers like choice in AI assistants. Different models suit different tasks

[Overfit]

Drag and drop app installs in Device Hub sounds small, but it saves time. Developers install builds constantly. Small workflow gains add up. Drag and drop is always welcome. Less clicking means more coding