New controls and chat improvements in Copilot for JetBrains
By Steven Van ·
Enterprise admins can set default agent models, and a diagnostic Fix action opens inline chat to request a repair.
Enterprise administrators can now set the starting model for new conversations in GitHub Copilot for JetBrains. The update also adds a diagnostic Fix action, control over MCP server startup, and changes to chat and account navigation.
Default models and MCP startup
Managed settings let enterprise administrators choose any available Copilot agent model as the default for new conversations, while preserving an explicit choice made through the model picker. A new MCP setting lets users disable automatic server startup for Copilot and Claude.
Fix issues from diagnostics
Diagnostic intention menus now include a Fix action. It opens inline chat and asks Copilot to repair the issue, using agent mode when available and ask mode otherwise.
Chat and account navigation
- Signed-in accounts have clearer labels, a simpler status display, better navigation for long lists, and a Switch Account action.
- Chat messages are grouped by turn, with controls to move between turns. User messages also have copy and edit actions.
- A one-time reminder helps new users find Chat. The sign-in page adds a responsive layout, clearer headings, improved provider choices, a direct Copilot plans link, and cancellable browser authorization progress.
- The Copilot agent placeholder highlights questions, edits, context, and commands.
- After accepting a migration command, Go Back opens a Copilot home session even when the local conversation continues.
Reliability and IDE support
The release improves reliability across language server startup, model and provider switching, MCP configuration, customization refreshes, file changes, and worktree workflows. It also resolves interaction and display issues in model management, tool-call details, working sets, and JetBrains IDE settings.
The release note states that support for JetBrains IDE 2025 has ended. GitHub directs users to its Copilot for JetBrains feedback tracker.
