VibeKeys Max Update: Keyboard Mode, Live Claude Code Status, and OTA Firmware Updates
VibeKeys Max just got a major update — three new capabilities that change how you interact with your device and with Claude Code.
Keyboard Mode
VibeKeys Max now suppots Keyboard mode by default. Pair over Bluetooth, and VibeKeys Max becomes a dedicated Claude Code controller. Every key sends input directly to your computer. The defaults are tuned for Claude Code workflows — /compact, page scroll, accept, escape, YOLO — and every key is remappable if you need something different.
No server. No WiFi. No setup beyond Bluetooth pairing.
Keyboard Mode guide | Customize Key Mappings
Live Claude Code Status on the Screen
When you are deep in a coding session with Claude Code, context switching is expensive. Checking the terminal to see if Claude is still thinking — or already waiting for you — pulls you out of whatever you were reading, reviewing, or planning next.
The VibeKeys Max screen now shows Claude Code's status in real time. You can see whether it is thinking, generating, planning, or done and waiting for your input. It turns the keyboard into a passive status indicator — like a build light on your desk, but for your AI coding agent. A quick glance is all it takes to stay in sync without breaking your flow.
Claude Code Status Integration guide
OTA Firmware Updates
Until now, updating firmware meant finding a USB cable, opening a flashing tool, and going through a multi-step process. That friction meant most users stayed on whatever version shipped from the factory — even when newer firmware brought real improvements.
OTA updates remove that barrier entirely. If your device is connected to WiFi, you can update the firmware wirelessly from your browser in a few minutes. No cables, no drivers, no flashing tools. This means we can ship improvements faster and you can actually receive them.
The USB-based ESP LaunchPad method is still available for recovery and factory resets.
For Existing Users (Received Before April 10th)
If you already have a VibeKeys Max, here is how to get all the new features.
Layout change: The positions of the "Plan" key and the "Delete" key have been swapped in the latest firmware. To apply this and all other updates, please reflash the firmware using the ESP LaunchPad method.
After reflashing:
- Your device will default to keyboard mode — just pair over Bluetooth and you are ready to go
- To enable real-time Claude Code status on the screen, install the plugin by following the Claude Code Status Integration guide
- To customize key mappings, see the Customize Keys guide
Enjoy vibe coding!