Embedding AI into developer software

JetBrains⁠(opens in a new window) creates intelligent software development tools used by more than 15 million engineers around the world. Its product suite includes popular Integrated Development Environments (IDEs), such as PyCharm, IntelliJ IDEA, as well as the Kotlin programming language. 

Driven by its mission to remove tedious tasks from developers’ workflows, JetBrains incorporated OpenAI’s API into its AI Assistant product. The response has been striking—a notable 77% of developers reported feeling more productive, with 55% finding more time to focus on more engaging tasks.

JetBrains IDEs have historically included features such as code completion and code inspection that make developers more productive. These features help developers through the lifecycle of software development, including writing code, testing code, and building projects in various environments. 

These tools were based on heuristic models that are smart and context-aware. Since JetBrains was already building tools that provide intelligent suggestions, exploring AI was a natural extension—especially given the recent advancements in generative AI, where features like autocomplete-style code completions and contextual code suggestions are transforming how developers work. 

JetBrains recognized the opportunity to take a significant leap forward and developed its AI Assistant, a new product that integrates with OpenAI’s API into Jetbrains’ IDE products.

Using OpenAI’s API to fast-track the software development process

JetBrains believed that LLMs could provide immense value to their customers if integrated into their IDEs, but wanted to explore their options before committing to a chosen provider. 

JetBrains considered all the leading LLM providers, but chose OpenAI as first LLM provider for the following reasons:

“We worked with developers who really care about what we create and how we create it.”

Vladislav Tankov, Team Lead of JetBrains AI