Development modes control how much autonomy agents have when executing tasks. The mode determines whether destructive operations require explicit approval.
Autopilot (Default)
Agents execute without confirmation. Fastest mode for trusted environments.
- File writes, edits, deletions execute immediately
- Shell commands run without prompting
- MCP tool calls proceed automatically
- Best for: Greenfield projects, clear specifications, trusted codebases
Review
Approval required before destructive operations. Shows approval card with diff/preview.
- File writes/show_diff cards appear for
write_file,apply_diff,delete - Shell commands show command preview before execution
- MCP destructive tools prompt for approval
- Read-only operations (read, search, list) still execute automatically
- Best for: Production codebases, sensitive changes, learning the system
Assisted
Full human-in-the-loop for every action. Each tool call requires explicit approval.
- Every tool call shows approval dialog
- Parameters editable before confirmation
- Can reject and provide guidance for retry
- Maximum control, maximum latency
- Best for: High-risk changes, teaching/mentoring, audit requirements
Changing Modes
Configure in Settings → Development Mode. The mode persists across sessions and applies to all new tasks.
| Mode | Write Ops | Shell Commands | Read Ops | Typical Latency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Autopilot | Auto | Auto | Auto | ~2-5s per step |
| Review | Prompt | Prompt | Auto | ~5-30s per step |
| Assisted | Prompt | Prompt | Prompt | ~10-60s per step |