On Wednesday, Google officially launched a major new feature for its command-line AI system Gemini CLI Extensions. This addition allows outside developers and companies to integrate directly into the Gemini CLI environment, giving the AI-powered tool more flexibility and customization options.
At launch, Figma, Stripe, and other well-known tech companies are among the first to offer compatible extensions. The move positions Google’s Gemini CLI as a powerful, developer-first platform built for creativity and integration.
This rollout follows closely after OpenAI’s launch of apps in ChatGPT, which also introduced third-party access within its AI platform. However, unlike OpenAI’s curated system, Google’s approach is completely open extensions can be published by anyone and installed manually by developers without any approval from Google.
An Open Ecosystem for Developers
Developers can host their Gemini CLI extensions in public GitHub repositories, allowing others to freely download, modify, and use them. This freedom creates an open ecosystem where innovation and customization are entirely in the user’s hands.
As Google explained, “Gemini CLI extensions put you in control. You can combine extensions, chain commands and build a personalized toolchain that perfectly fits the way you work. Whether you want to streamline a personal workflow or integrate a company’s internal tools, you now have the power to create the command-line experience you’ve always wanted,” the company wrote.
This statement reflects Google’s goal of empowering developers with flexibility, creativity, and ownership over their workflows a shift that emphasizes openness rather than restriction.
Early Extensions and Use Cases
The first available extension was for Google’s own Nanobanana image generator, released on GitHub last week. Once installed, the extension enables users to generate images directly within the Gemini CLI terminal, showcasing the tool’s potential for real-time creative applications.
Since its June 2025 launch, Gemini CLI has grown rapidly, surpassing one million users worldwide. According to Google, most of its usage comes from software developers who rely on it for code generation, automation, and maintenance tasks including within Google’s own internal engineering teams.
Building the Future of Developer Tools
Google says the goal of Gemini CLI Extensions is to transform its AI tool into a fully customizable developer platform. With the ability to combine extensions, automate commands, and integrate any toolchain, Gemini CLI is evolving from a smart assistant into a flexible, open-source AI workspace.
By enabling third-party participation, Google is positioning Gemini CLI as a centerpiece for AI-assisted software development, blending automation with developer creativity in one place.
Conclusion
Google’s introduction of Gemini CLI Extensions marks a significant milestone for AI-driven development tools. The open design invites developers to shape their own command-line experiences from personal workflows to enterprise integrations.
With this move, Google is not only competing with OpenAI’s ecosystem but also defining a more open, developer-led approach to AI tooling one that champions creativity, collaboration, and full control at the command line.
