Gemini API key
You do not need your own Gemini API key for most of MeshX Create. Many flows work out of the box. A key is for some advanced features — and for the best image output in MeshX Imagen, we recommend adding your own Google AI key.
Quick start (about 3–5 minutes)
Six short steps — then paste the key on your Dashboard.
- Open Google AI Studio in your browser.
- Sign in with your Google account (create one if you need to).
- Open Get API key (or API keys in the menu).
- Click Create API key and choose or create a Google Cloud project when asked.
- Copy the key when it appears — you will not see the full secret again.
- In MeshX: go to Create → Dashboard, paste the key under Gemini API key, and click Save.
Done. Your key is stored on your account and used for advanced Gemini-powered steps (including Imagen). It overrides any one-off key fields elsewhere in the app when set.
When you need a key (and when you don't)
- Most of the app: everyday flows do not require you to paste a Gemini key. For example, generating listing titles and tags in Catalogue can use MeshX's built-in access when you haven't added your own key.
- Advanced / user-billed features: MeshX Imagen calls Google on your account, so you must add your API key on the Dashboard first.
- Best image quality: even where other options exist, your own key with billing / credits in Google AI gives you the most control and typically the best experience for image generation.
Credits, billing, and staying in control
Google often offers promotional credits for new Cloud / AI billing accounts (for example, a fixed dollar amount over a limited time). Exact amounts and eligibility change — always confirm on Google AI pricing and in the Google Cloud console before you rely on any offer.
- Set budget alerts and spending limits in Google Cloud billing so you get notified before unexpected charges.
- Some people use a dedicated payment method (for example a virtual card with a low limit) so they can monitor usage and reduce risk after any trial period. This is a personal choice, not financial advice — use what fits your situation.
- Review Google's terms, acceptable use, and data policies for the Gemini API in their documentation.
Roadmap note (MeshX)
MeshX plans to offer a self-hosted local LLM in the future. When that ships, it is intended to replace reliance on the Gemini API for supported features, so configuration and privacy options can evolve. This guide will be updated when that is available.