Gemini CLI Step-by-Step: Installation and Use for Developers

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Gemini CLI is, as its name suggests, a wizard that we can use locally on our PC or computer.

We can use it through the terminal, the CMD, or any console you're using. In my case, since I'm on a Mac, I use the terminal; if you're on Windows, you'd use the CMD.

As a developer, what interests me most is being able to create and manage projects with this wizard. However, it can be used for many other things: for example, if you have a folder full of unorganized videos, you can ask it to help you categorize them. In short, it allows you to automate many tasks on your computer.

Characteristics

In short, it's an assistant that runs tasks on your computer. In my case, I use it to create and manage projects.

• It's completely free, so to speak:
• Free version: 60 requests per minute and 1,000 requests per day.
• Paid version: for those who need more capacity.

I think the free plan is more than enough for most people. And if you reach the limit, you can always switch accounts or wait until the next day.

User examples

• With Gemini CLI you can:
• Automate tasks.
• Create projects.
• Make requests to Google.
• Generate images and videos.
• Use the same features as the web version, but locally.

Installing Gemini CLI

To install it, go to the installation section of the official repository.

The recommended method is using Node.js. If you're on a Mac, you could use another method, but to standardize the installation across Windows, Mac, and Linux, we'll use Node.js.

Step 1: Install Node.js

• If you don't have Node installed:
• Go to the official website.
• Download the version for your operating system.
• Install it with the classic Next, Next, Next command.

This also installs npm, the Node package manager.

Step 2: Install Gemini CLI

In the terminal, run:

$ sudo npm install -g [paquete]
$ sudo npm install -g @google/gemini-cli

• Sudo is used on Mac/Linux because it's a global installation.
• Wait for the process to finish.
• When it's finished, you can type gemini in the terminal to start the wizard.

Próximos pasos

En el próximo vídeo continuaré con la autenticación y configuración inicial de Gemini CLI para empezar a trabajar con él.