Integrating CopilotKit with Next.js Applications
A Guide to Building Rich Agent Interfaces with AG-UI

Introduction
As web applications evolve, so does the need for more interactive and engaging user experiences. With the rise of AI-driven applications, developers are looking for ways to integrate rich user interfaces that work seamlessly with intelligent agents. This is where CopilotKit and AG-UI come into play. In this blog, we’ll explore how to integrate CopilotKit with Next.js applications, leveraging AG-UI to build dynamic agent interfaces.
What is CopilotKit?
CopilotKit is a powerful toolkit designed to help developers create web applications that can communicate with AI agents effectively. It provides a suite of tools that streamline the process of building conversational and interactive interfaces. The integration of CopilotKit with frameworks like Next.js makes it easier to create applications that offer real-time interaction and rich user experiences.
Understanding AG-UI
AG-UI (Agentic UI) is a consistent user interface framework that connects users with agents through a rich, interactive experience. Features of AG-UI include:
- Chat Interface: Simplifies interaction with agents.
- Tool Based Generative UI: Enables dynamic rendering of tools.
- Shared State: Synchronizes state between agents and UIs, ensuring a coherent user experience.
- Streaming Messages: Allows real-time messaging between users and agents, enhancing responsiveness.
By combining the capabilities of AG-UI with CopilotKit, developers can create engaging interfaces that respond intelligently to user inputs.
Setting Up Your Next.js Application
To get started with integrating CopilotKit in your Next.js application, follow these steps:
- Create a New Next.js Project:
Use the command:
npx create-next-app your-app-name
- Install CopilotKit and AG-UI:
Navigate to your project directory and run:
npm install @copilotkit/ag-ui
- Set Up your AG-UI Configuration:
In your application’s root, create aconfig.jsfile and initialize AG-UI:
import { AGUI } from '@copilotkit/ag-ui';
const agui = new AGUI();Building the Agent Interface
Next, let’s create a simple agent interface that uses AG-UI features.
import { useEffect, useState } from 'react';
import { AGUI } from '@copilotkit/ag-ui';
const ChatComponent = () => {
const [messages, setMessages] = useState([]);
useEffect(() => {
agui.onMessage((msg) => {
setMessages((prev) => [...prev, msg]);
});
}, []);
return (
Chat with Agent
{messages.map((msg, index) => ({msg}
))}
);
};This simple component sets up a chat area, listening for messages from the AG-UI. When a message is received from the agent, it updates the state and displays it to the user.
Use Cases for CopilotKit and AG-UI
There are numerous scenarios where integrating CopilotKit with AG-UI can enhance user interactions. Here are a few key use cases:
- Customer Support: Create chatbots that provide real-time support, allowing users to ask questions and get immediate answers.
- Interactive Tutorials: Utilize tool-based interfaces to guide users through complex setups by offering visual aids and instant feedback.
- Social Platforms: Implement rich chat features that allow users to communicate with agents or even other users while accessing tools dynamically.
Conclusion
Integrating CopilotKit with Next.js and leveraging AG-UI can drastically elevate user interactions in your applications. By providing coherent chat interfaces, dynamic tool rendering, and shared state, developers can create responsive applications that keep users engaged. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced developer, the potential of these tools can help you build the next generation of AI-driven web applications.
For more detailed documentation and examples, visit the official AG-UI documentation.