Feature Request: Checkpoint and Restore Functionality in GitHub Copilot Chat

[iwangbowen]

Type: Feature Request

Feature Request: Checkpoint and Restore Functionality in GitHub Copilot Chat

It would be highly beneficial to introduce a checkpoint feature within the GitHub Copilot Chat interface. This would allow for greater control and flexibility during complex, multi-step coding sessions.

Core Functionality:

1. Automatic Checkpointing: Copilot should intelligently create checkpoints at logical junctures in the workflow, such as after a set of related file edits is completed or before embarking on a new, distinct task.
2. Change Comparison: Users should be able to select any checkpoint and view a diff comparison of all file modifications made up to that point.
3. Granular Restore Options: When restoring to a checkpoint, the user should be provided with the following choices:
   • Restore File Content Only: Revert the files to their state at the checkpoint, but leave the current chat history intact.
   • Restore Task Only: Revert the chat conversation to the state of the checkpoint, but keep all subsequent file changes. This would allow the user to re-approach the task with the current code state.
   • Restore Both: Revert both the file content and the chat history to the state they were in at the checkpoint.

This feature would significantly improve the user experience by making it easier to manage changes, correct mistakes, and explore different implementation paths without losing work.

VS Code version: Code - Insiders 1.102.0-insider (0140ab3, 2025-06-18T05:04:01.892Z)
OS version: Windows_NT x64 10.0.26100
Modes:

[isidorn]

Makes sense. However dup of microsoft/vscode-copilot-release#7564
This is something we are looking into. Thus closing as dup. Feel free to comment on that one if you feel like the issue does not capture everything important.

fyi @justschen