Setup moves into the language server
Microsoft C++ Language Server now includes the tool that extracts compilation commands for MSBuild projects. Copilot CLI calls it automatically when starting the language server as a project opens.
Previously, users had to provide a compile_commands.json file, or the agent had to find and run the appropriate configuration skill. The new workflow removes this separate discovery step for MSBuild projects. It prepares the compilation data needed for features such as go-to-definition and find references directly.
What about other build systems?
Existing options remain available for non-MSBuild systems. CMake projects can use a skill that generates compilation commands; custom systems need an appropriate data file or a custom extractor.
To get started, users need to install the Microsoft C++ Language Server extension and accept its terms. According to the announcement, an active GitHub Copilot subscription is also required.
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