Large language models initially required users to manually copy and paste code into a text interface for interaction, but the Zed editor has introduced innovations that streamline this process, particularly for accessing project context beyond the codebase itself. With the introduction of extensions from the Zed Extension Store, users can now employ custom slash commands in the assistant panel to integrate context from a variety of data sources like databases or analytics directly into their conversations with the model. These extensions use the Model Context Protocol (MCP), developed in collaboration with Anthropic, which allows authors to create a single implementation for a data source, enhancing efficiency and compatibility across different editors. This advancement not only reduces the need for manual context integration but also opens up future possibilities for autonomous tool use by models. Zed, an open-source editor, actively seeks contributions and offers opportunities for those interested in the evolving landscape of AI-driven software development.