obniz Docs Developer obniz MCP Server Introduction

Introduction

obniz MCP Server lets MCP-compatible AI clients operate obniz devices through obniz Cloud.

MCP, or Model Context Protocol, is a standard way for an AI client to connect to external systems. With the obniz MCP Server, the AI client can request device operations without embedding obniz-specific code in the chat client itself.

How it works

1
AI Client

An MCP-compatible client such as Claude Desktop, Claude Code, or Codex.

2
MCP Server

Receives requests and connects to the Hosted App tied to the App Token.

3
obniz Device

Operates real hardware through obniz Cloud.

  1. An AI client such as Claude Desktop or Claude Code connects to the obniz MCP Server.
  2. The client sends an App Token in the Authorization header.
  3. The MCP server uses the App Token to access the devices installed to the corresponding Hosted App in obniz Cloud.
  4. The target obniz device is controlled through obniz Cloud.

When to use it

Use the MCP server when you want to:

  • operate an obniz device from an AI assistant
  • check device status from a chat-based workflow
  • try hardware behavior without writing a dedicated control program first
  • let an MCP-compatible client connect to an existing obniz Cloud setup

Requirements

  • An obniz Cloud account
  • A Hosted App on obniz Cloud
  • An App Token for that Hosted App
  • At least one obniz device installed to the Hosted App
  • An MCP-compatible AI client

For the fastest setup, use the cloud MCP endpoint in Quick Start.