This VSCode extension integrates OpenAI's ChatGPT and GPT-4 directly into the IDE, enabling developers to generate code, receive explanations, refactor, and debug code using AI. It targets developers seeking AI-powered coding assistance within their workflow.

How It Works

The extension leverages an unofficial ChatGPT API to communicate with OpenAI services. It allows users to interact with the AI through a sidebar panel or context menus on selected code. Responses are displayed in real-time, and conversation context is maintained for follow-up questions.

Quick Start & Requirements

• Install from the VSCode Marketplace.
• Requires an OpenAI API key, configured in extension settings.
• Building from source requires manual patching of node_modules/chatgpt to address VSCode runtime incompatibilities with fetch and @dqbd/tiktoken.

Highlighted Details

• Supports both ChatGPT and GPT-4 models (GPT-4 access required).
• Context-aware interactions: ask follow-up questions, maintain conversation history.
• Context menu actions for code: documentation, explanation, refactoring, bug finding, optimization.
• Real-time response streaming.

Maintenance & Community

• Project inspired by other VSCode ChatGPT plugins.
• Credits OpenAI and the chatgpt-api library by Travis Fischer.
• Open to feedback and contributions.

Licensing & Compatibility

• License not explicitly stated in the README.
• Uses an unofficial API, which may be subject to change or discontinuation by OpenAI.

Limitations & Caveats

The extension is described as a proof of concept and may contain bugs or limitations. Building from source requires significant manual intervention due to runtime compatibility issues. The reliance on an unofficial API poses a risk of breakage.