Gemini CLI, a free and open-source command-line interface that brings its AI model, Gemini 2.5 Pro, directly into developers’ terminals via a free Gemini Code Assist license. Designed to fit naturally into the workflows of developers who rely on the terminal daily, Gemini CLI serves as a lightweight, prompt-driven interface for coding, content generation, and task automation.

A Familiar Environment, Now Smarter

The terminal remains one of the most efficient and universally adopted tools in software development. Gemini CLI builds on this foundation by introducing an AI agent that responds to natural language input, performs coding tasks, and supports developers through a wide range of responsibilities — from file manipulation and command execution to debugging and research assistance.

Gemini CLI isn’t just about code. It can assist with writing tasks, manage to-do items, and even integrate into larger scripts non-interactively — making it a flexible companion for builders across disciplines.

Built for Developers, Backed by Scale

Users can get started with Gemini CLI at no cost. Logging in with a personal Google account grants access to Gemini 2.5 Pro via a free Gemini Code Assist license, which includes a sizable 1 million-token context window. During this preview phase, Google is offering generous usage limits: up to 60 model requests per minute and 1,000 requests per day — the highest in the market for individual users.

For advanced users, Gemini CLI supports authentication via Google AI Studio, Vertex AI, or Gemini Code Assist Standard or Enterprise licenses, enabling scalable workflows for professional teams.

What Sets Gemini CLI Apart

At its core, Gemini CLI provides several tools and features that enhance its practicality:

- Google Search Integration: Ground your prompts in real-time web content for more informed responses.

1. - Built-in Extensions and MCP Support: Leverage the Model Context Protocol to expand functionality.
2. - Custom Prompting: Personalize how Gemini responds based on your specific context or team conventions.
3. - Script Automation: Seamlessly integrate Gemini into bash or Python scripts for scheduled or background tasks.

Fully Open Source and Community-Ready

Licensed under Apache 2.0, Gemini CLI is entirely open source. Developers are encouraged to review the codebase, contribute improvements, raise issues, and suggest features through the project’s GitHub repository. It also supports configuration at both personal and team levels via GEMINI.md, with flexibility for extensions and updates as standards evolve.

Shared Technology with Gemini Code Assist

Gemini CLI shares its architecture and capabilities with Gemini Code Assist, Google’s AI-powered coding assistant. Whether you’re in the terminal or an IDE, both environments benefit from a common foundation — including a multi-step reasoning agent that can write tests, fix bugs, generate features, and offer intelligent suggestions based on your instructions.

Getting Started

Gemini CLI is now in public preview and available for installation. No waitlists or complex setup are required — just a personal email address to get started through the Code Assist preview. With robust performance, generous usage allowances, and the backing of Google’s AI infrastructure, Gemini CLI is a practical tool for developers seeking to enhance their workflow directly from the terminal.

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