In the realm of generative AI, there’s a significant amount of streaming integration happening. The most recent example is a Google model being incorporated into a Microsoft solution.
Users subscribed to the premium versions of GitHub Copilot, such as Pro/Pro+, Business, and Enterprise, now gain access to Google’s most advanced model yet, the 2.5 Pro version of Google Gemini.
Gemini 2.5 Pro is generally available in Copilot https://t.co/OE5ydvvw5ZAugust 20, 2025
“The sophisticated Gemini 2.5 Pro model, developed by Google, can now be accessed by GitHub Copilot users. Known as their most advanced model for intricate tasks, it demonstrates impressive reasoning and coding skills. It excels not only in common programming, mathematical, and scientific tests.”
The latest version of Gemini 2.5 Pro is accessible to premium account holders across all platforms where GitHub Copilot is usable. This includes VS Code, the mobile app, and every step in between, such as Xcode.
As a analyst, I often ponder the options available for users who rely on the complimentary version of GitHub Copilot. While it may seem adequate, it’s worth exploring alternatives given certain limitations associated with the free account. However, delving deeper into this topic will be reserved for future discussions.
You don’t need a paid subscription to utilize Google Gemini; you can even gain access to the latest version, Gemini 2.5 Pro, if you so desire.
Enter Gemini CLI and Gemini Code Assist
Google provides two free tools for developers: the open-source command line tool called Gemini CLI and the Gemini Code Assist extension, which is compatible with VS Code (and other platforms). Both can be utilized using a personal Google account authenticated via OAuth, and they come with exceptionally generous API usage limits.
Using Gemini CLI gives you the option to select either Gemini 2.5 Flash or Pro versions. However, it’s important to note that if you exceed quota limitations, your access may be reverted back to the Flash version. The same applies when using Gemini on the web with a complimentary account. This information was provided directly by Gemini CLI.
Remember that when you’re on a free plan with your personal Google account, the Command Line Interface (CLI) may switch from Pro to Basic mode due to quotas. To ensure uninterrupted access and increased usage, consider using API keys provided by Google AI Studio or Vertex AI which offer billing based on usage.
It appears that the Code Assist VS Code extension references “Gemini 2.5,” yet the documentation doesn’t provide further details about this version or any specific model. Interestingly, when asked what model it’s employing, the extension seems to believe it’s still using Gemini 1.0 instead.
To ensure familiarity with the local codebase, you’re provided a context window capable of holding up to one million words. When using Agent mode in Code Assist or the Gemini CLI, users are granted a total of 60 API calls every minute and 1,000 calls daily.
Given the extensive features offered to free users versus GitHub Copilot, I can’t help but wonder why you haven’t considered trying out Gemini. Granted, my programming skills are still at a beginner level, but it certainly seems worth exploring given its user-friendly nature. Compared to Google’s tool, the limited 50 chat messages per month for Copilot Free is quite shocking.
Code Assist offers Multi-Cursor Position (MCP) capability along with Google web search functionality that allows it to comprehend numerous files simultaneously. However, it may not always be swift, whereas Copilot boasts native integration as an advantage, but for a free tool, its performance is admirable and hard to fault.
For additional information about Gemini CLI, visit its GitHub page. You can find Code Assist in the Extensions marketplace within Visual Studio Code and other compatible platforms.
It appears that my expectations for GitHub Copilot are not being met, as it seems rather restricted, even for those who aren’t free users. I’ve had conversations with a paying subscriber on social media, and surprisingly, they seem to encounter similar limitations compared to using Gemini’s free tools, which is quite unexpected.
It appears that Microsoft plans to roll out Copilot widely with the aim of generating substantial profits, yet in this specific field, there seem to be more cost-effective options available.
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2025-08-21 15:39