GitHub has added REST and GraphQL API support for requesting Copilot code reviews, letting teams trigger reviews from scripts, workflows and internal tools while optionally selecting the effort level for each request. The change is generally available on Copilot Pro, Pro+, Max, Business and Enterprise plans.
GitHub says the API support allows reviews to begin from systems teams already use, rather than only through the existing product interface. Per-request effort selection gives those integrations control over the review setting they invoke.
Separately, the Default review effort setting now uses Balanced for new and existing repositories and organizations using Copilot code review. The change took effect September 28, 2026; GitHub says explicitly selected Lite settings were preserved.
Administrators and users can switch from Default to Lite at the enterprise, organization, repository or personal level. Settings at a lower level can override those above them.
Definition. Copilot code review API support lets integrations request GitHub Copilot code reviews and optionally choose the review effort for each request.
| Setting or capability | Details |
|---|---|
| API requests | REST and GraphQL APIs can request Copilot code reviews. |
| Per-request effort | Integrations can optionally choose the review effort for each request. |
| Default review effort | Balanced is the Default setting for new and existing repositories and organizations using Copilot code review. |
| Lite settings | Explicitly selected Lite settings were preserved. |
| Setting precedence | Enterprise, organization, repository and personal settings can be overridden at lower levels. |
Key takeaways
- Teams can trigger Copilot code reviews from scripts, workflows and internal tools.
- REST and GraphQL APIs support requests for Copilot code reviews.
- Integrations can optionally select the review effort for each request.
- The Default review effort is now Balanced for repositories and organizations using Copilot code review.
- Explicitly selected Lite settings were preserved.
- Lower-level settings can override enterprise, organization, repository or personal settings above them.
FAQ
What API support was added for GitHub Copilot code review?
GitHub added REST and GraphQL API support for requesting Copilot code reviews.
Can an integration choose a Copilot code review effort level?
Yes. Teams can optionally select the effort level for each API request.
What is the new Default review effort?
Balanced is the Default review effort for new and existing repositories and organizations using Copilot code review.
When did Balanced become the Default review effort?
The change took effect September 28, 2026.
Can lower-level Copilot review settings override higher-level settings?
Yes. Settings at a lower level can override those above them.
