Apple has released Xcode 26.3, introducing support for agentic coding, a development approach that allows coding agents to operate with greater autonomy inside Xcode. The update enables developers to use agents such as Anthropic’s Claude Agent and OpenAI’s Codex directly within the development environment to assist with complex tasks.
Agentic coding in Xcode 26.3
Agentic coding allows Xcode to work toward developer-defined goals by breaking tasks into steps, making decisions based on the project’s architecture, and using built-in development tools. This enables coding agents to perform actions beyond basic code suggestions, supporting more independent execution within projects.
The feature builds on intelligence capabilities introduced in Xcode 26, which added a new coding assistant for writing and editing Swift code. With Xcode 26.3, coding agents are granted access to a broader set of Xcode functions.
Expanded agent capabilities
With the update, agents such as Claude Agent and Codex can participate across the development lifecycle. Supported actions include:
- Searching Apple documentation
- Exploring and navigating project file structures
- Updating project settings
- Capturing and reviewing Xcode Previews
- Iterating through builds, fixes, and validation cycles
These capabilities allow agents to assist during implementation, testing, and refinement stages.
Model access and protocol support
Xcode 26.3 provides built-in access to Claude Agent and OpenAI Codex, enabling developers to integrate advanced reasoning models directly into their app development workflows for Apple platforms. Developers can choose which supported model to use based on project requirements.
In addition to native integrations, Xcode 26.3 exposes its capabilities through the Model Context Protocol, an open standard that allows developers to connect any compatible agent or tool to Xcode.
Availability
Xcode 26.3 is available as a release candidate starting today for all members of the Apple Developer Program. A public release on the App Store is expected soon.