Visual Studio Code hosts Burke Holland to explore chat agent modes and Copilot customization in VS Code, highlighting the development of ‘Beast Mode’ for GPT-4.1 and advanced agent-based workflows for coders.

Mastering Chat Modes in VS Code with Burke Holland

In this episode, Burke Holland joins the Visual Studio Code team to discuss the latest advancements in chat agent modes within VS Code. The session highlights:

Key Topics Covered

• Chat Agent Modes: Explore how chat agent modes in VS Code are evolving, enabling developers to work with AI-powered agents more efficiently.
• Customization of Agents: Learn how to customize chat interactions and agents for personalized developer workflows.
• Beast Mode for GPT-4.1: Burke shares insights into creating ‘Beast Mode,’ a configuration that enhances productivity and unleashes more powerful interactions with GPT-4.1 models.
• Integration with GitHub Copilot: The episode dives into the integration of GitHub Copilot's advanced features in VS Code, including agent behaviors and prompt engineering tactics.
• Prompt Engineering & Productivity: Tips on using prompt customization and tools like Prompt Boost to maximize value from Copilot and agent-based coding.

Useful Links

• Customize chat and agents in VS Code
• Chat Agent Modes Documentation
• Prompt Boost
• Awesome Copilot Resources
• Beast Mode by Burke Holland

Listen and Subscribe

The podcast is available on various platforms:

• Apple Podcasts
• Spotify
• Amazon Music
• Castbox
• Overcast
• Pocket Casts
• VS Code Podcast Subscription Options

Follow Visual Studio Code

• X (Twitter): @code
• Bluesky: vscode.dev
• YouTube: Visual Studio Code
• LinkedIn: VS Code on LinkedIn
• GitHub: microsoft/vscode

For developers interested in maximizing productivity with AI-powered agents and advanced Copilot features, this episode offers practical guidance, tips, and resources straight from industry leaders.