[FEATURE] Auto-display generated images inline in chat

Preflight Checklist

• [x] I have searched existing requests and this feature hasn't been requested yet
• [x] This is a single feature request (not multiple features)

Problem Statement

When Claude Code generates or saves image files (e.g., screenshots, diagrams, charts), users currently have to manually navigate to the folder and open the file to see the result. This is a significant workflow disruption that breaks concentration and wastes time.

Proposed Solution

Claude Code already has the ability to display images inline in the conversation via the Read tool. This capability should be built into the default behavior.

Proposal: After any tool or operation that creates/saves an image file, Claude Code should automatically display it inline in the conversation — the same way screenshots from MCP tools appear in chat.

This would eliminate unnecessary context-switching and make the experience much smoother, especially for visual workflows (design, data visualization, etc.).

Alternative Solutions

Current workaround is to manually use the Read tool on the generated image file, or use the open command to launch the file in an external viewer. Both require extra steps and break the flow of conversation.

Priority

High - Significant impact on productivity

Feature Category

Interactive mode (TUI)

Use Case Example

1. I ask Claude Code to generate a chart or diagram and save it as a PNG file.
2. 2. Claude Code creates the file and saves it to disk.
3. 3. Currently: I have to open Finder, navigate to the folder, and open the file manually to see the result.
4. 4. Expected: Claude Code automatically displays the generated image inline in the chat, so I can immediately see and evaluate it without leaving the conversation.

Additional Context

_No response_