GitHub Copilot CLI 1.0.94-0 discovers local Ollama models in /model and switches to them in-session
A coding agent can now switch between local and cloud models as needed without restarting the CLI.
// Key points
- Starting in 1.0.94-0, /model lists models from a running local Ollama instance alongside configured models and Copilot's cloud models.
- Discovery doesn't add them automatically: you review the provider and endpoint, then choose Add and use for this session or Add without switching; connection failures are explained in the picker.
- Local models must support tool calling and streaming; the feature doesn't install a runtime or download models.
- Choosing a local model doesn't enable offline mode or turn off GitHub telemetry; offline mode is opt-in with COPILOT_OFFLINE=true.
Builder's takeThe easy trap is the last point: switching to a local model doesn't mean your code stays on the machine. For teams with confidentiality requirements, I'd put COPILOT_OFFLINE=true in shared config instead of relying on everyone to remember to switch models.
// Background · from #Coding agents
Full timeline →- Oct 9 Codex CLI 0.161.0 makes GPT-6.1 Sol the default and lets you pick a cyber access program per turn
- Oct 8 Local sandboxing for GitHub Copilot is generally available, restricting agent commands’ file, network and credential access with enforceable enterprise policies
- Oct 8 GitHub ships a purpose-built model for leaked secrets that reads surrounding code to catch unformatted passwords, coming to push protection and Copilot /security-review