GitHub Copilot app for Beginners: Using the diff, terminal, and browser

GitHub Copilot, the AI coding assistant, has introduced a new user interface to streamline the review, testing, and iteration process. Previously, developers had to switch between different tools to accomplish these tasks, but now everything resides within the Copilot app.

The app features three built-in panels: diff, terminal, and browser. The diff panel allows users to compare the original and modified code side by side. Changes are highlighted in green for additions and red for deletions, enabling developers to make informed decisions about accepting or rejecting changes.

The terminal panel lets users run commands directly within the Copilot app. This feature is particularly useful for executing project-specific commands and observing the outcomes without leaving the application. Users can run commands individually or configure them as scripts, which can be initiated by clicking a designated "Run" button.

Finally, the browser panel closes the loop by providing a preview of the AI-generated code within a web browser environment. This is especially beneficial for testing features as if they were part of a live website. The Pick & Polish tool within the browser panel enables developers to interact with specific elements, making adjustments and observing the results by re-running the project in the terminal.

Using these three panels concurrently ensures a comprehensive review process, minimizing the risk of errors and fostering confidence in merging AI-generated code. By addressing the critical questions of what has changed, whether it runs correctly, and if it functions as intended, the GitHub Copilot app empowers developers to take control of their codebase confidently.