Over a month ago, Microsoft released version 22.1.0 of SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS), it"s popular IDE for managing SQL infrastructure and related data. It introduced a GitHub Copilot Walkthrough experience, Bring your own model (BYOM) for AI-assisted development, and right-click menu support for many UX elements, among other things. Now, Microsoft has begun rolling out SSMS 22.1.1.
While the point difference between SSMS version 22.1.0 and 22.1.1 would imply that this is a relatively minor release, this is absolutely not the case. This is because the headlining feature of this release is GitHub Copilot code completions, which a lot of users have been clamoring for, for quite some time.
It is worth noting that this experience is based on the one offered in Visual Studio, but Microsoft did need to feed its system some context about the database to offer reliable and fast code completions. Microsoft claims that GitHub Copilot code completions are significantly different than IntelliSense and the company goes as far as to say that it"s even better than "IntelliSense on steroids". As such, if you notice both code completion options competing on suggestions, it"s better to disable IntelliSense, according to Microsoft.
SSMS 22.1.1 contains a handful of bug fixes for Activity Monitor, Database Diagrams, Migration Assistant, and more too. You can read more details about them in the dedicated release notes here. Microsoft has also highlighted that it is making improvements to its internal processes too, and they should result in more reliable and stable releases.
In terms of what"s next, the Redmond tech firm is planning to integrate Agent Mode into GitHub Copilot along with enhancements to the instructions process. If you actively use SSMS and want it to be even better, you can request new features or upvote existing good ideas yourself by visiting Microsoft"s dedicated portal here as well.