GitHub will switch on unset Copilot features for business accounts

GitHub has started enforcing a global default policy for its Copilot AI tool on business accounts. Any eligible feature that an administrator never set will now follow that default. The rollout began October 22, 2026, and runs through October 26.

What changed

GitHub announced the policy in September. It covers generally available Copilot features and supported client capabilities. Enforcement is gradual, so it may reach different companies and organizations at different times. The policy applies to eligible settings under "Features & clients" and "MCP servers in Copilot."

Who it affects

• Companies on Copilot Business and Copilot Enterprise plans.
• Features that were left unconfigured by an administrator.
• Not individual users, since the change is for business plans.

Administrators can still turn any feature on or off at any time. An explicit choice is not overridden by the default.

What to do and what is unclear

Admins can review the setting in GitHub under AI Controls, then Copilot, then "Default policy for new features." GitHub also has documentation on default availability that explains eligibility and exceptions. The announcement does not list which features count as eligible, and the details of what happens once the policy takes effect were not included in the material available. Checking the setting and the documentation is the safest way to know where your company stands.