GitHub Copilot code review launches Lite and Balanced effort levels
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According to the GitHub changelog published on 7 August 2026, GitHub Copilot code review now offers Lite and Balanced effort levels for general use. These options replace the Low and Medium effort levels that were previously available during the public preview phase. GitHub states that existing configurations automatically carry forward under the new names. Subscribers using Copilot Pro, Pro+, Max, Business, and Enterprise plans can access these review depth options.
Organisational defaults and review labels
Organisation administrators can now set a default review effort level that applies across all repositories within the organisation. Individual repositories inherit this default unless they have their own specific configuration. When a review runs, GitHub Copilot labels which effort level was used in both timeline events and the pull request overview comment. Users can choose Lite for routine changes or Balanced for deeper analysis on more complex or sensitive changes for each review.
Is it worth it?
This update is a better deal for teams wanting more granular control over review depth without altering individual setups every time. Users on supported plans should check whether their organisation administrator has set a default level that suits their workflow before changing individual review settings. The source does not state whether any additional costs apply to the listed plans for these features.
What this changes for tools we list
- GitHub Copilot — The release introduces general availability for Lite and Balanced review effort levels, replacing Low and Medium options for Pro, Pro+, Max, Business, and Enterprise plans.
Sources
- Copilot code review effort levels are generally available — GitHub Changelog, 7 August 2026