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As GitHub evolves its platform, new tools and features are regularly rolled out to improve the experience for developers and teams. One of the latest changes concerns GraphQL and its use in querying issues. This article highlights some key updates, including the of advanced search features, changes to private repository settings, and the availability of personalized instructions for GitHub Copilot. With these updates, GitHub aims to streamline workflows and enhance customization for users.
Key GitHub Updates
– GraphQL Issue Query with Advanced Search
GitHub now supports advanced search queries using GraphQL. The new ISSUE_ADVANCED type allows developers to refine their search by combining multiple criteria, such as assignee and label filters. This feature is detailed in the GraphQL documentation.
– Default Advanced Search for All Issue Queries
Starting September 4, 2025, all issue queries will automatically use advanced search. This means developers will no longer need to specify the advanced_search parameter in REST API queries. Additionally, the ISSUE GraphQL type will integrate advanced search capabilities.
– Issue Timeline Events
GitHub introduces issue timeline events that will now track changes related to issue types, such as when an issue type is added, updated, or removed. This new feature aims to improve transparency and traceability for issue management.
– Retirement of “Private Repositories Only” Setting
GitHub will retire the “Private repositories only” setting for issue types by March 26, 2025. Developers must unselect this option for any issue types in private repositories before the deadline, or they will be removed. Affected users can still edit, disable, or delete these issue types after the update.
– GitHub Copilot Personalized Instructions
Personalized instructions for Copilot Chat are now generally available. Developers can customize Copilot’s behavior by specifying language preferences, response styles, and even code best practices. This feature can help tailor Copilot’s output to the specific needs of individual projects or teams.
What Undercode Says: Insights and Analysis
GitHub’s upcoming changes reflect the platform’s commitment to enhancing developer productivity, improving the search experience, and expanding customization options for users. Let’s break down the key components of these updates:
1. GraphQL Advanced Search Integration
The addition of the ISSUE_ADVANCED type in GraphQL is a significant improvement for developers who frequently search for issues. By incorporating more advanced filters, GitHub enables users to fine-tune their queries based on complex criteria, such as issue labels, comments, or assigned users. The integration of advanced search into the GraphQL API is an important step toward creating a more powerful, flexible search engine that can handle a wide variety of scenarios.
However, with the upcoming switch to advanced search by default on September 4, 2025, it’s crucial for users to familiarize themselves with the new system. Developers will no longer need to specify the advanced search parameter in REST API queries, which could simplify the process. Still, it’s worth noting that older, simpler queries may need some adjustments to accommodate the expanded search functionality. For those who have used advanced search features in the past, this change will likely feel seamless, but less experienced users may find it beneficial to review the GraphQL documentation for a better understanding of the new syntax.
2. Issue Timeline Events
The new feature of issue timeline events adds significant value to the way issues are managed. Developers will now have visibility into when issue types are modified, updated, or removed, which can aid in tracking project progress and debugging issues. With this added layer of transparency, users can quickly identify the exact moment when a particular change was made, offering more control over issue management and enhancing collaboration across teams.
Additionally, these timeline events can serve as a useful auditing tool. When working in large teams or on high-priority projects, having a clear record of changes to issue types could be invaluable for project managers and team leads who need to ensure that everything stays on track.
3. Retirement of “Private Repositories Only” Setting
The retirement of the “Private repositories only” setting will affect users who have specific issue types reserved for private repositories. GitHub’s move to remove this setting reflects an ongoing push towards simplifying repository management and reducing unnecessary configuration overhead. Developers will need to make sure they take action before March 26, 2025, to preserve their existing issue types.
The change also raises questions about whether private repositories will become less distinct from public repositories in terms of issue management. With the removal of this setting, private repositories may become more integrated with the overall GitHub ecosystem, but at the cost of some specificity in how issues are handled. The shift may also encourage more collaboration between teams by making issue types less siloed.
4. Personalized Copilot Instructions
GitHub Copilot’s new personalized instructions feature is a powerful tool for developers who wish to fine-tune their AI-powered assistant. With personalized instructions, users can define their preferred coding standards, response styles, and more. This is a great move by GitHub to make Copilot even more flexible and aligned with individual user preferences, enhancing productivity and efficiency.
For teams working on complex projects or using specific frameworks, personalized instructions can provide a huge boost. Developers no longer have to repeatedly clarify coding preferences or correct Copilot’s behavior. By setting these preferences upfront, users can ensure that Copilot provides more relevant, tailored assistance throughout the development process. This is especially useful in larger organizations where consistency in code style and practices is crucial for long-term maintainability.
Fact Checker Results:
- GraphQL Advanced Search: Accurate and up-to-date information based on GitHub’s official documentation.
- Issue Timeline Events: Verified as part of GitHub’s recent updates to enhance issue tracking.
- Retirement of “Private Repositories Only” Setting: Correct, as confirmed by GitHub’s announcement regarding changes to repository settings.
- GitHub Copilot Personalized Instructions: Factually accurate; personalized instructions are available to Copilot users as of now.
References:
Reported By: https://github.blog/changelog/2025-03-06-github-issues-projects-api-support-for-issues-advanced-search-and-more
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