AI Agent vs Skill vs MCP vs API — What Each Layer Actually Does
Aug 3, 2026 · 4:31
UnifAPI's episode on AI Agent vs Skill vs MCP vs API argues the four are separate layers in a public-data workflow, each owning a different job. It defines an API as the contract returning structured public records, MCP as the assistant-friendly connection path for Claude, ChatGPT, Codex, or other clients, a Skill as a repeatable task playbook, and an Agent as the user-facing role and decision loop. Using an Instagram creator example, a request moves down through agent, skill, MCP and API to gather live public evidence and returns as a cited answer. It stresses UnifAPI's scope is read-only: no posting, DMs, or private accounts, and directs users to Agents for an outcome, Skills for a workflow, MCP to connect an assistant, or the API catalog for custom integrations.
