Google Drive: Rename and update file metadata — MCP tool
Google Drive MCP tool: Renames a file or updates its description and starred flag without touching content.
Technical name: update_file_metadata
What task it solves
I want to rename a file or edit its details.
Changes a file's name, description and/or starred state — metadata only; the bytes inside stay exactly as they were.
When to use it
Use it to rename files and folders, keep searchable descriptions, or star/unstar. To replace a file's content use upload_file with file_id; to relocate use move_file; to trash use trash_file.
What to provide
file_id— required.name/description/starred— at least one. The extension is part of the name — keep it unless you mean to change it.
What it returns
id, name, description, starred and the new modifiedTime.
What changes in Google Drive
The provided fields are overwritten for everyone the file is shared with; omitted fields stay untouched. The old name/description is not recoverable from here, which is why the tool is flagged as overwriting existing state.
Example request
Rename the draft to "Q3 report — final.docx" in Google Drive and star it.
Errors and limitations
At least one field is required — an empty update is rejected locally, before the API. Renaming needs write access (capabilities.canEdit from get_file).
Related MCP tools
- Move a file — location, not name.
- Upload file content — replace the bytes.
Technical details
- Impact: destructive operation
- Group: Files
- Description source:
update_file_metadataregistration insrc/tools/files.ts - Full technical reference
- All MCP capabilities