Use Heard

Listening modes

Choose how much context Heard should speak.
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Listening modes change how the same agent event is narrated. Switch modes from the Heard menu bar whenever your attention changes.

ModeBest forWhat you hear
Co pilotWorking at the screenShort hooks and signposts, with more detail for decisions and completed work
CompanionWalking, cooking, or working away from the screenFuller briefings that explain the state, name the choice, and say what needs you
FocusOnly important interruptionsApprovals, blockers, failures, and decisions while routine progress stays quiet

Co pilot

Co pilot is the default mode for screen based work. It keeps narration short because the details remain visible in your terminal or diff.

Use Co pilot when:

  • You are reading along with the agent
  • You want quick confirmation that work is moving
  • You still want questions, failures, and final results to stand out

Companion

Companion assumes your eyes are elsewhere. It gives enough context to understand the state, the choice, and what should happen next.

Use Companion when:

  • You step away from the desk
  • You are following a long task by ear
  • You need plain language instead of terse developer shorthand

Focus

Focus stays quiet unless the session needs your attention. Routine progress and normal completion messages may remain silent.

Use Focus when:

  • You are concentrating on another task
  • Several sessions are active
  • Only a blocker, failure, approval, or decision should interrupt you

If Heard appears too quiet during initial setup, return to Co pilot and run a small task with a clear question or final result.