Google has unveiled an IDE tool through a browser called IDX since mid-2023. Its foundation is based on VS Code, running through a browser and incorporating AI code-writing features similar to GitHub Copilot. Initially, the AI code-writing model was Codey, derived from the PaLM 2 language model. However, Google successfully upgraded the model to Gemini, prompting IDX to shift to using Gemini.
The AI features for code writing in IDX include an inline AI assistant that helps correct or insert code directly into the line being written, a chatbot for code-related inquiries, and AI assistance in writing comments or explaining code where needed. An example of the inline AI assistant feature showcased by Google is commanding the writing of code to manage an endpoint connected to Firebase by specifying the ID token and setting the UID correctly. Gemini will then generate this code set automatically. Another example includes instructing code refactoring or writing unit tests for desired functions.
Aside from embedding the Gemini feature into IDX, Google has also added features on the IDX side for code writing connected to the Gemini API on the server. Commonly used themes in the Gemini API template, such as user reviews, language translation, and writing image descriptions, are readily available.
Undoubtedly, this is a Google product that has been anticipated. While the IDX is currently limited in its usage, interested individuals can read up on it and join the waitlist for registration as usual.
TLDR: Google introduced the IDE tool IDX in mid-2023, based on VS Code and featuring AI code-writing capabilities like GitHub Copilot. The AI features in IDX include an inline AI assistant for direct code manipulation and explanations, with examples such as managing endpoints in Firebase and code refactoring. Google has also integrated features on the IDX side for connecting to the Gemini API on the server, offering commonly used templates like user reviews and language translation.
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