Default Agent Mode

[gs-pal]

Description

Updating the default mode to agent mode from chat.

Checklist

• I've read the contributing guide
• The relevant docs, if any, have been updated or created
• The relevant tests, if any, have been updated or created

Screenshots

N/A

Tests

Updated the test that checks toggling modes using the keyboard short of CMD + . to expect Agent mode at the start of the test and the new stages when the keyboard shortcut is used.

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Summary by mrge

Changed the default mode from chat to agent mode and updated the related test to match the new default.

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[gs-pal]

I have read the CLA Document and I hereby sign the CLA

[RomneyDa]

@gs-pal thanks for the contribution
@sestinj @TyDunn opinions on this? Thinking near future chat should be default because of token usage, safety, etc.

[gs-pal]

I think agent mode is fantastic and is very powerful. It gives a kinda wow moment for users when they first use it.

Currently, it feels hidden (especially on 13 inch screens as you only have the icon with a small drop down arrow). Users have to actively to go look through the modes to find agent mode, which they may not even know exists. I think there's a similar issue with tool permissions but that's harder to solve.

Starting off in agent mode will allow users to get to the most powerful version of continue quicker leading a better experience.

[RomneyDa]

@gs-pal thinking about removing edit mode from the dropdown and making agent more of toggle that says "Agent" to make it clearer. Would that be an improvement?

[chezsmithy]

Maybe we should have something show up for first time users to explain the modes? I've seen a similar lack of agent mode use in our user base until we've done showcases and training. Now they are so excited.

[sestinj]

We added something in the onboarding to call out agent mode, which is a good first step, but I agree we could do more. Agent mode as default soon perhaps, something else in the meantime

[gs-pal]

I think the toggle is a great idea. Personally, I don't think edit mode is useful anymore so I'd agree with removing it.

[RomneyDa]

Thanks all for the input here. Let's look into moving Edit out of the "modes"/toggling in the near future and make agent more obvious by having a toggle that shows agent on or off, rather than a selector that shows the current mode. Then, maybe we can try having agent on as default as well. Will close this for now.