Expanding Agent Access Beyond the Editor
On August 7, 2025, Cursor published an update introducing a command-line interface for Cursor Agent. Previously available only within supported editors, this release makes Agent functionality available from any terminal or automated environment. Developers using Neovim, JetBrains IDEs, or other tools can now invoke the same AI-driven code generation, bug fixing, and search capabilities without switching contexts.
Evolution of Cursor’s AI Features
Cursor’s journey began with context-aware text autocomplete and inline code edits via ⌘+K. As underlying AI models gained proficiency, the team added an Agent layer to perform tasks such as generating files, executing terminal commands, and querying the codebase. Earlier this year, Cursor Agent expanded to web browsers, mobile devices, and Slack channels. The new CLI release continues that trend by decoupling Agent from any graphical interface.
CLI Installation and Usage
Developers can install the CLI with a single command:
curl https://cursor.com/install -fsSL | bash
Once installed, Agent can be invoked directly from the terminal. For example:
cursor-agent chat "find one bug and fix it"
This command sends the prompt to a selected AI model—any model tied to the user’s Cursor subscription—and returns code edits or suggestions. Multiple Agent instances can run in parallel in separate shells or remote sessions, offering a flexible approach for background tasks, batch operations, or remote automation.
Integration and Workflow Considerations
By exposing Agent capabilities through a CLI and headless API, Cursor enables integration with continuous integration pipelines, automated testing frameworks, and custom scripts. Teams already using terminal-focused editors or remote development environments can incorporate AI-driven assistance without altering existing toolchains.
Beta Status and Security Safeguards
The CLI is currently in beta. As noted in the release announcement, security safeguards remain under development. The tool can read, modify, and delete files, as well as execute shell commands approved by the user. Cursor recommends using the CLI only in trusted environments and reviewing changes before applying them in production repositories.
Feedback and Documentation
Cursor welcomes user feedback on the CLI beta. Detailed instructions, configuration options, and troubleshooting tips are available in the official CLI documentation at https://cursor.com/cli. The release post is authored by Sualeh, Ian, Balta, and Lukas.
TL;DR
- Command-line access: Cursor Agent is now available via a CLI and headless interface
- Cross-environment use: Works alongside Neovim, JetBrains IDEs, remote shells, and CI pipelines
- Single-step install:
curl https://cursor.com/install -fsSL | bash - Prompt example:
cursor-agent chat "find one bug and fix it" - Beta release: Security safeguards are evolving; restrict use to trusted environments
- Documentation and feedback at https://cursor.com/cli