Auto mode + plan mode interaction: unclear what activates auto mode and when

Summary

Auto mode (continuous autonomous execution) can become active after ExitPlanMode but the transition is not clearly communicated. User does not know auto mode is on until AI says so or behavior changes.

Empirical observation (session 2026-06-08)

1. Session was in plan mode for 50+ turns
2. User confirmed plan with confermo
3. ExitPlanMode approved
4. System reminder appeared: Auto mode is active
5. AI continued executing autonomously — user was not explicitly informed that auto mode was the new state

Expected behavior

• Explicit confirmation message when auto mode activates (CLI banner or status line indicator)
• Documentation of which transitions can activate auto mode automatically
• Option for user to opt-out of auto mode activation at the moment of transition (not after the fact)

Impact

Medium. For technical users, behavior is obvious. For non-technical users, auto mode activating silently means autonomous AI actions without their conscious approval at that moment.

Environment

• macOS Darwin 24.6.0
• Claude Code current latest 2026-06-08