claude-code - 💡(How to fix) Fix [FEATURE] Strong visual cue about the window's state (running, prompt, idle), e.g. background color [2 comments, 2 participants]

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anthropics/claude-code#52160Fetched 2026-04-23 07:35:03
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Preflight Checklist

  • I have searched existing requests and this feature hasn't been requested yet
  • This is a single feature request (not multiple features)

Problem Statement

I often have many Claude terminals open, and it happens all the time that I miss when one of them asks me for input, as with many windows it's tricky to notice which window needs input. Similarly, where nothing is happening, it's tricky to know.

Proposed Solution

A strong visual cue depending on the Claude's state

  • screen background color changed (printf '\e]11;#c02020\a')
  • big fat colorful line on the screen, for example the lines around prompt Ideally configurable, or preset, e.g. default (idle), red (waiting for used), blue (running)

Alternative Solutions

No response

Priority

Low - Nice to have

Feature Category

Interactive mode (TUI)

Use Case Example

No response

Additional Context

No response

extent analysis

TL;DR

Implementing a visual cue, such as changing the screen background color or adding a colorful line, can help users identify when a Claude terminal needs input or is in a different state.

Guidance

  • Investigate using ANSI escape codes, like the provided printf example, to change the terminal's visual appearance based on its state.
  • Consider adding a configuration option to allow users to customize the visual cues, such as choosing between different colors or cue types.
  • Look into implementing state-based cues for different conditions, like idle, waiting for input, or running, to enhance the user experience.
  • Evaluate the feasibility of integrating this feature into the existing Interactive mode (TUI) of Claude.

Example

# Example of changing the screen background color to red when waiting for input
printf '\e]11;#ff0000\a'

Notes

The proposed solution relies on the use of ANSI escape codes, which may not work in all terminal environments. Additionally, the implementation details, such as the specific colors or cue types, will depend on the desired user experience and the technical requirements of the Claude application.

Recommendation

Apply a workaround by implementing a basic visual cue, such as changing the screen background color, to improve the user experience while a more comprehensive solution is developed.

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