Amazon CodeWhisperer
AWS AI coding companion
Amazon CodeWhisperer, now rebranded as Amazon Q Developer, is an AI-powered code companion from AWS that provides real-time code suggestions, security scanning, and chat-based assistance directly within popular IDEs. It supports multiple programming languages and offers a generous free tier for individual developers alongside enterprise features with IP indemnification.
Key Capabilities
Amazon CodeWhisperer generates real-time code suggestions including single-line completions and full function implementations based on your comments and existing code. Built-in security scanning identifies vulnerabilities in generated and existing code aligned with OWASP standards. Chat-based assistance answers technical questions, explains code, and helps with debugging. The tool supports Python, Java, JavaScript, TypeScript, C#, and integrates with VS Code, IntelliJ IDEA, and other JetBrains IDEs. The Pro tier includes IP indemnification, data isolation guarantees, and SSO support via IAM Identity Center.
Who Should Use Amazon CodeWhisperer
Amazon CodeWhisperer is ideal for developers already working within the AWS ecosystem, enterprise teams requiring IP indemnification and data privacy guarantees, and individual developers seeking a free AI coding assistant. Its deep AWS service integration makes it particularly valuable for cloud-native development workflows.
Getting Started
Install the Amazon Q extension in VS Code or your preferred JetBrains IDE. Sign up with an AWS Builder ID for free individual access, which includes code suggestions, security scanning, and chat assistance. Start coding and CodeWhisperer will automatically provide context-aware suggestions. Upgrade to the Pro tier at $19/mo per user for enterprise features.
Pricing & Accessibility: Free tier for individuals includes code suggestions, security scanning, and chat with limits of 50 requests or 1,000 lines of code transformed per month. Pro tier at $19/user/mo includes 1,000 requests, 4,000 lines, IP indemnification, SSO support, and data isolation.
Why Consider Amazon CodeWhisperer: Amazon CodeWhisperer offers a rare combination of a generous free tier with built-in security scanning and enterprise-grade features like IP indemnification, making it a strong choice for both individual developers and organizations in the AWS ecosystem.
Pros
- Generous free tier with code suggestions, security scanning, and chat assistance
- Built-in security vulnerability scanning aligned with OWASP standards
- IP indemnification on Pro tier protects against copyright concerns
- Deep integration with AWS services for cloud-native development
- Available in popular IDEs including VS Code and JetBrains suite
Cons
- Language support limited to fewer languages than some competitors
- Pro tier at $19/user/mo is higher than some alternatives
- Best value realized within the AWS ecosystem specifically
Who is this for?
AWS cloud-native application development, enterprise software development with IP protection, security-conscious code generation, Python and Java development workflows, team-based development with SSO and access controls
Frequently Asked Questions about Amazon CodeWhisperer
Is Amazon CodeWhisperer the same as Amazon Q Developer?
Yes, Amazon CodeWhisperer was rebranded to Amazon Q Developer in April 2024, adding agentic features while maintaining the core code suggestion, security scanning, and chat capabilities. Both names are commonly used to refer to the same tool.
Is Amazon CodeWhisperer really free?
Yes, the free tier is available to individual developers with an AWS Builder ID and includes code suggestions, security scanning, and chat assistance with monthly limits of 50 requests or 1,000 lines of code transformation. No credit card is required.
Does Amazon CodeWhisperer include IP protection?
The Pro tier at $19/user/month includes IP indemnification, meaning AWS will defend you against copyright claims related to code generated by CodeWhisperer. This also includes a reference tracker that flags suggestions similar to known open-source code.
Pricing
freemium
$19/user/mo
Free tier: 50 requests or 1,000 lines of code per month
Details
APIYes
Open SourceNo
CollaborationYes
LanguagesPython, Java, JavaScript, TypeScript, C#
Learning CurveEasy
Integrations
VS CodeJetBrains IDEsAWS servicesCLI
