DataStax launches GitHub Copilot extension to boost productivity

DataStax has unveiled an innovative extension for GitHub Copilot, aimed at significantly boosting developer productivity and improving code quality. This limited public beta extension enables developers to interact with their Astra DB databases using natural language, eliminating the need for traditional code-based queries.

Revealed during the Microsoft Build keynote presentation in Seattle, the extension integrates seamlessly with GitHub Copilot Chat. By allowing developers to describe desired data outcomes in natural language prompts, the extension translates these into actionable database queries through the Astra DB Data API. Currently, developers can access the limited beta version of this extension via the GitHub marketplace.

Ed Anuff, Chief Product Officer at DataStax, emphasises the extension's capability to simplify database interaction. "The DataStax extension for GitHub Copilot lets developers easily interact with Astra DB so they can access their data and understand their database structure with ease," he stated. Anuff highlighted that Copilot offers intelligent suggestions and tailored code snippets, enhancing code quality through context-aware suggestions and autocomplete functionalities.

The GitHub Copilot extension is expected to streamline prototyping, enabling developers to handle their data more efficiently and improve overall productivity. This approach provides significant support in removing routine coding tasks, thereby allowing developers to focus on more complex aspects of their projects.

This latest offering from DataStax aligns with the company’s broader objective of enabling developers and enterprises to harness generative AI (GenAI) effectively. The company aims to offer a comprehensive GenAI stack that simplifies the path to production for AI applications, integrating smoothly with existing developer ecosystems and cloud services.

DataStax is already recognised by numerous leading enterprises such as Audi, Bud Financial, Capital One, and SkyPoint Cloud. By continuing to innovate and provide tools like the GitHub Copilot extension, DataStax reinforces its commitment to enhancing developer experience and facilitating the creation of scalable, intelligent AI applications.