Anthropic has released a system called Mods for Claude Code, allowing developers to insert JavaScript or TypeScript functions that run directly inside the tool. These plugins hook into specific events such as tool calls, user prompts, and UI rendering to alter how the application functions. Developers can now add custom panels beside the chat interface, intercept existing tool calls, or wire up entirely new commands. Some built-in features like the /diff command are already constructed as Mods, according to the company.
Anthropic provides sample Mods on GitHub for users to inspect. The system operates without sandboxing, meaning Mods run with the user’s permissions and carry inherent security risks. Consequently, the company warns users to install them only from trusted sources. The feature works in the command line interface, the desktop application, and partially within the VS Code extension. Organizations can control which Mods are permitted to load on their networks. The first official Mod plugin is named “You Should Know.” It spins up a separate agent that watches Claude’s output and sends a “Heads up” message when it spots important information users might have missed. You can turn it on with the command /plugin enable cc-plugin-you-should-know@builtin.
* Mods are written in JavaScript or TypeScript.
* They run without sandboxing restrictions.
* The first official plugin monitors output for missed details.
