
Google launches interactive chat for AI-powered development in Project IDX
Google has launched Interactive Chat for Project IDX, its AI-driven web-based development environment. By embedding actionable suggestions into responses, Interactive Chat uses Google Gemini to provide context-specific assistance tailored to the codebase and tech stack in use, keeping developers in control of updates and code refactoring.
The tool supports a diverse range of projects, from frontend apps like Flutter and Android to backend systems such as Docker and Python, as well as AI frameworks like Genkit and LangChain. Developers can use natural language commands like "Run my unit tests" or "Extract this function into a new component," enabling real-time execution within the IDX workspace. Debugging is simplified with queries like "What process is running on port 8080?" offering instant answers.
The tool automates project setup, bypassing tedious configuration tasks, and optimizes Docker workflows with prompts such as "Create a Dockerfile for a Next.js app using Node 20." Server-side automation is also improved, allowing quick setup of Express.js servers or dependency installation without manual input. Google is exploring multimodal interactions to further streamline communication and coding workflows, seeking user feedback to shape Interactive Chat's future.
Tried it. I think OpenHands is better.