Google Launches Gemini CLI: Open-Source AI Tool for Developers

Google has unveiled Gemini CLI, an open-source AI agent designed to rival Claude Code and Codex CLI. This new tool is tailor-made for developers who rely heavily on the command-line interface (CLI) terminal for various tasks. Gemini CLI offers a lightweight and direct connection to Google’s AI, making it a versatile utility for a wide range of applications, from coding and content generation to problem-solving and research.

According to Google, the primary advantage of Gemini CLI is its ubiquity and portability, making it an indispensable tool for developers. The company states, 'While Gemini CLI excels at coding, it is built to do much more. It is a versatile, local utility you can use for a wide range of tasks, from content generation and problem solving to deep research and task management.'

One of the key features of Gemini CLI is its integration with Google’s AI coding assistant, Gemini Code Assist. This integration allows all Code Assist developers, including those on free, standard, and enterprise plans, to enjoy prompt-driven and AI-first coding in both VS Code and Gemini CLI. This seamless integration enhances the developer experience by providing real-time assistance and automation.

Google is also offering generous usage limits for individual developers using Gemini CLI. Users can log in with their personal Google account to access a free Gemini Code Assist license. This license includes free access to Gemini 2.5 Pro and its extensive one million token context. If a user exceeds the free limits during the preview, Google provides an industry-leading allowance of 60 model requests per minute and 1,000 requests per day at no cost.

For professional developers who need to run multiple agents simultaneously, Google offers options such as Google AI Studio or Vertex AI key for usage-based billing, or they can opt for a Gemini Code Assist Standard or Enterprise license.

Gemini CLI, now in preview, brings powerful AI capabilities to the command line. These capabilities include code understanding, file manipulation, command execution, and dynamic troubleshooting. The AI agent enhances the command line experience by allowing developers to write code, debug issues, and streamline their workflows with natural language.

Google emphasizes that Gemini CLI’s powerful capabilities are due to its built-in tools. Users can fetch web pages and provide real-time external context to the model using Google Search. They can also extend Gemini CLI’s functionality with built-in support for the Model Context Protocol (MCP) or bundled extensions. Customized prompts and instructions can be used to tailor Gemini for specific needs and workflows. Additionally, tasks can be automated and integrated with existing workflows by summoning Gemini CLI non-interactively through scripts.

Since Gemini CLI is fully open source (Apache 2.0), developers can inspect the code to understand its workings and verify its security implications. This transparency ensures that users can trust the tool and adapt it to their specific requirements.

In summary, Gemini CLI represents a significant advancement in AI-driven development tools, offering developers a powerful and flexible solution to enhance their workflows and productivity.