Getting started with GitLab Duo Agentic Chat

This post introduces and details the GitLab Duo Agentic Chat interface, which serves as the primary interaction point for AI agents within the development workflow. It explains how Agentic Chat differs from simple chatbots by being an autonomous collaboration partner capable of taking action on behalf of the user, such as modifying code, opening merge requests, and triaging issues, all within the context of the SDLC platform. The post outlines access methods across Web UI, VS Code, JetBrains, Visual Studio, and the GitLab Duo CLI. It details model and agent selection, including foundational agents like Planner, Security Analyst, Data Analyst, and CI Expert, as well as custom agents. Common use cases are elaborated with example prompts for issue management, vulnerability analysis, code understanding, onboarding, debugging, code review, feature implementation, and refactoring. Troubleshooting tips for common issues are also provided.