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# Listening modes

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

| Mode          | Best for                                          | What you hear                                                                    |
| ------------- | ------------------------------------------------- | -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| **Co pilot**  | Working at the screen                             | Short hooks and signposts, with more detail for decisions and completed work     |
| **Companion** | Walking, cooking, or working away from the screen | Fuller briefings that explain the state, name the choice, and say what needs you |
| **Focus**     | Only important interruptions                      | Approvals, 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.