Google Expands Jules AI Coding Tool

Google has announced a significant update to its AI coding assistant, Jules, as it further entrenches itself in the AI coding space.

The tool now integrates directly into developers' daily workflows through a command-line interface (CLI) and a public API. This allows Jules to operate within terminals, CI/CD pipelines, and tools like Slack, making coding more seamless and reducing the need for tab switching.

As AI assistants become essential tools for developers, Google is clearly positioning itself as a leading option. Previously, Jules was only accessible via a website or GitHub, but with the new CLI, developers can interact with Jules directly in their terminal.

Kathy Korevec, Director of Product at Google Labs, stated, "We want to reduce context switching for developers as much as possible." Google also offers another AI coding helper, Gemini CLI, both relying on the company's Gemini 2.5 Pro AI model but designed for different work styles.

Google has been quietly upgrading Jules, with more integrations hinted at for developers who prefer alternatives to GitHub. These updates position Jules as more than just a coding assistant, evolving into a personalized teammate that adapts to individual workflows.

AI tools in professional settings raise oversight questions, but Jules includes checkpoints to request user guidance when needed. While mobile users do not yet receive native notifications, improvements are underway. Jules primarily targets professional software engineers, though some hobbyists and indie developers are experimenting with it.

Google's expansion of Jules reflects the intensifying competition in AI coding, with Microsoft and OpenAI also advancing their offerings. By embedding Jules into existing tools, Google bets on convenience to attract developers. The question remains whether Jules will become a trusted everyday assistant or just another option in a crowded market.