GitHub brings HydraFusion preview to VS Code and Copilot app
GitHub has expanded the HydraFusion research preview from Copilot CLI to Visual Studio Code and the GitHub Copilot app. Eligible users can select it in the model picker; organization and enterprise users may need an administrator to enable preview features.
SessionWatcher editorial · Published · Updated · Source announcement: 2026-09-30
Where to enable HydraFusion
In VS Code version 1.140 or later, or VS Code Insiders, select HydraFusion in the Copilot Chat model picker. If it is missing, enable the chat.copilot.hydraFusion.enabled setting. In the Copilot app, update to the latest version, turn HydraFusion on in Settings, then choose it from the model picker.
HydraFusion is available to Copilot Pro, Pro+, Business, and Enterprise users. For Business and Enterprise, an administrator must enable preview features. GitHub says HydraFusion remains a research preview and is subject to change.
Sources: HydraFusion in VS Code and the GitHub Copilot app - GitHub Changelog
How it differs from Auto
HydraFusion is not a single model. It selects a workflow and coordinates models within a turn, using capability signals for reasoning, code generation, debugging, and tool use. Single uses one selected model. Cascade has an efficient model draft a solution before a quality gate accepts it or escalates to a stronger model. Critique has a different model family review a draft, after which the drafting model revises once.
Auto selects a model for each request, while HydraFusion explores workflow selection and multi-model coordination within a turn. GitHub says the release also makes workflow steps more transparent and sends more frequent progress updates.
Sources: HydraFusion in VS Code and the GitHub Copilot app - GitHub Changelog
AI assisted reporting, checked against the linked official sources. Source pages checked 2026-09-30. Editorial process and corrections.