# Model Context Protocol

> An open protocol that standardizes how LLM applications connect to tools, data, and contextual resources.

- Category: Tools & Protocols
- Stage: Established
- Also called: MCP
- Canonical: https://www.joelcsaji.com/ai-dictionary/model-context-protocol

## Plain English

MCP is a common plug shape for giving AI apps access to external systems.

## Example

An IDE exposes repository files and issue data to multiple AI coding tools through MCP servers.

## Why it matters

As agents multiply, standardized context and tool access reduces one-off integrations.

## Related

- [MCP Server](https://www.joelcsaji.com/ai-dictionary/mcp-server)
- [MCP Client](https://www.joelcsaji.com/ai-dictionary/mcp-client)
- [Tool Use](https://www.joelcsaji.com/ai-dictionary/tool-use)

## Mentioned in

- [iOS 27, iPadOS 27, macOS 27, watchOS 27 and tvOS 27](https://www.joelcsaji.com/blog/ios-27-ipados-27-macos-27-watchos-27-tvos-27)
- [The AI-Powered Developer: Building Modern Web Apps in 2026](https://www.joelcsaji.com/blog/ai-powered-developer-2026)
- [Next.js 16: Turbopack, React Compiler, and the Future of Fast](https://www.joelcsaji.com/blog/nextjs-16-turbopack-react-compiler-future-of-fast)
- [The Rise of AI Agents: How Autonomous AI Transformed Work in 2025-2026](https://www.joelcsaji.com/blog/rise-of-ai-agents-2025-2026)

## Sources

- [Model Context Protocol Spec](https://modelcontextprotocol.io/specification/2025-11-25)
- [Anthropic: Building Effective Agents](https://www.anthropic.com/engineering/building-effective-agents)