Trying GitHub Copilot in Xcode? Protect your local work first
Before you try GitHub Copilot in Xcode’s built-in coding assistant, save your work and identify which files your next build actually needs. Start with your active workspace and untracked files. Review generated output separately, after the build or test has finished.
Which version of Xcode do you need?
GitHub’s public preview starts with Xcode 27.3 beta on a Mac running macOS Tahoe 26.6 or later. In that Xcode version, setup is under Xcode > Settings > Intelligence. The existing GitHub Copilot for Xcode extension remains a separate option. GitHub’s 6 November roundup repeated the preview announcement.
Make a checkpoint before the first edit
Save your open files and check the branch, modified files and untracked files in your Xcode workspace. If you use Git, run git status from the repository to see what needs attention. Preserve the changes you want to keep in an appropriate commit or backup. Check untracked files separately, especially assets, local configuration and test fixtures. Use your normal protected storage for any secrets.
Identify which build output you can reproduce
Wait for the build, tests and assistant tasks to finish. Review the build output you recognize and confirm you can regenerate it with the same project and toolchain before considering removal. Save archives, diagnostic logs and test results you still need. If the purpose of a folder is unclear, leave it in place and check the project’s settings.
Keep the two Copilot setups separate
If you already use the extension, make a note of which setup produced an edit or session you want to keep. The preview announcement confirms a separate way to use Copilot. It leaves session migration and on-disk storage unspecified, so keep any existing settings and history you still need when trying the preview.
Review supported local files with AI Agent Clean 1.0.9
AI Agent Clean lets you scan and review supported local AI tool locations for free. Use the grouped results to inspect the tool, path and size before selecting an item. Coverage of the new Xcode integration is unverified. Cleanup, uninstallation and file recovery depend on the app’s access and recovery checks. Eligible recovery does not require an active membership. Binary thinning, startup changes and maintenance actions are currently unavailable.
Check compatibility and regional pricing
AI Agent Clean requires macOS 14 or later and supports Intel and Apple silicon. Copilot’s Xcode preview has its own requirements listed above. The US reference price for AI Agent Clean lifetime access is US$29.99 as a one-time purchase. Check the Mac App Store for the price and offer eligibility in your region.