Google has announced the launch of Gemini CLI, a command-line tool powered by its Gemini AI models.
This tool is designed to run locally and help developers interact with their codebases using natural language.
It assists with basic coding tasks like debugging and writing new features. It also provides code explanation.
With Gemini CLI, developers can now access advanced AI tools directly within their terminal. This eliminates the need to switch between platforms. It also reduces friction in the development process.
Built to Support
Gemini CLI has other features that make it a multi-functional tool built to improve productivity in technical workflows. According to Google, it can also:
- Create videos using the Veo 3 model
- Generate research papers with the Deep Research agent
- Access real-time data via Google Search
- Connect to external databases through MCP servers
Competing with the Best
Gemini CLI is Google’s answer to similar tools like Codex CLI by OpenAI and Claude Code by Anthropic.
By launching Gemini CLI, Google plans to capture more developer attention and increase usage of its Gemini models.
The tool follows other offerings like Gemini Code Assist and Jules, an asynchronous code assistant.
Open Source and Developer-Friendly
To increase adoption, Google has open-sourced Gemini CLI under the Apache 2.0 license, one of the most permissive open-source licenses available.
Developers are free to use, modify, and contribute to the tool. In addition, Google is offering generous usage limits.
Free users can make up to 60 model requests per minute and 1,000 per day. This is roughly double the average usage observed during early tests.
The Larger Strategy
The release of Gemini CLI is part of Google’s plan to deepen its presence in the developer ecosystem.
Since launching Gemini 2.5 Pro in April, the company has seen increased interest in its AI tools.
Many developers still use third-party tools like Cursor and GitHub Copilot. However, Google hopes that a native, open-source solution will bring more users into its ecosystem.
Trust Issues
Despite rapid growth in AI coding tools, trust remains a key issue. A 2024 Stack Overflow survey found that only 43% of developers trust AI-generated code.
The reason is not far-fetched; studies have shown that these models can introduce errors or miss security issues.
Google acknowledges these concerns; that’s why Gemini CLI is meant to support, not replace, human oversight.
Developers are still responsible for reviewing, testing, and securing their code.
