Genkit is an open-source framework for building AI-powered applications, targeting Node.js and Go developers. It simplifies the integration of generative AI features by providing a unified API for various models, robust prompt engineering tools, and built-in observability and evaluation capabilities, enabling faster development and iteration cycles.

How It Works

Genkit employs a plugin-based architecture, allowing seamless integration with diverse AI models (e.g., OpenAI, Anthropic) and vector databases. Its core features include a unified generation API for text, media, and structured data, enhanced prompt management via .prompt files, and "Flows" for organizing AI logic with observability. This approach promotes code-centric development and simplifies complex AI workflows like Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG).

Quick Start & Requirements

• Install: npm i -g genkit (for CLI), then npm install genkit or go get github.com/firebase/genkit
• Prerequisites: Node.js or Go runtime. Specific AI models or vector databases may require API keys or separate installations.
• Resources: Local setup involves installing Node.js packages or Go modules. The developer UI runs locally for debugging.
• Links: Node.js Quickstart, Go Quickstart, Documentation

Highlighted Details

• Unified API for text, media, structured objects, and tool calls across different generative models.
• Supports Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) with simple indexing and retrieval APIs for various vector databases.
• Features a .prompt file format for defining rich prompt templates, model configurations, schemas, and tools.
• Includes a CLI and local Developer UI for debugging, testing, and evaluating AI flows.

Maintenance & Community

• Developed by the Firebase team with contributions from the open-source community.
• Community: Discord Server
• Feedback: GitHub Issues

Licensing & Compatibility

• License: Apache License 2.0.
• Compatibility: Can be used independently of Firebase or Google Cloud services.

Limitations & Caveats

• The Go version is currently in alpha, recommended only for prototyping.