MCP is (not) all you need

We discuss Model Context Protocol (MCP), positioning it as a standardized, open-source protocol championed by Anthropic to unify how large language models (LLMs) interact with external APIs, akin to a USB-C for AI. It explains that while previous methods for LLM integration existed, MCP offers a consistent interface using JSON-RPC, demonstrated through examples like tools/list and tools/call, facilitating easier development of both servers and clients. The article further clarifies that MCP itself lacks an LLM, requiring host applications like Cursor and Claude to manage the LLM interaction and workflow logic, emphasizing the importance of well-designed LLM workflows for effective tool utilization. Finally, the text explores MCP's potential to evolve beyond simple tool calling, envisioning a future where MCP servers can provide prompts, manage more complex multi-agent workflows, and potentially form a marketplace, suggesting a shift towards modular and collaborative AI development.