Firebase Studio adds autonomous Agent mode, MCP support, Gemini CLI

Google’s Firebase Studio, an AI-powered development workspace hosted in the Google Cloud, has added new AI-assisted development tools including an autonomous agent mode, foundational support for MCP (Model Context Protocol), and Gemini CLI integration.

The improvements were announced July 10. Three distinct modes now are available for interacting with Google’s Gemini AI model:

Ask – a mode used for discussion and planning with Gemini and geared toward planning code, brainstorming, and discussing complex problems collaboratively.

Agent – a mode in which Gemini can propose changes to an app, but the proposed changes must be approved by the developer before any files are modified.

Agent (Auto run) – a mode in which Gemini can autonomously reason, generate entire apps, and add features to existing apps without explicit developer approval. However, developer permission is required before deleting files, running terminal commands, or using external tools.

The Agent and Agent (Auto-run) modes can leverage personalized guidance from a variety of project-level rule files to ensure Gemini adheres to specific design patterns and preferences, Google said. Gemini automatically detects and loads instructions from files like.idx/airules.md, GEMINI.md, or.cursorrules at the project root.

In addition to the Agent modes, Google is previewing foundational support for MCP in Firebase Studio. Developers can add MCP servers to a workspace to connect to external tools and data sources, “supercharging” workflows with Gemini in Firebase, Google said. For example, developers could use the Firebase MCP server to explore data in Cloud Firestore using natural language while building or debugging an application.

Recently launched Gemini CLI, now directly integrated in Firebase Studio, provides a tool for tasks beyond code, such as content generation and research. It offers usage tiers, advanced AI features, and integration with Google Search. Google said the combination of the Agent modes, MCP support, and Gemini CLI in Firebase Studio are designed to redefine AI-assisted development and integrate powerful AI capabilities directly into a developer’s workflow.