[BUG] Cannot switch between Chat and Code — persistent navigation tabs missing (macOS, latest version)

Preflight Checklist

• [x] I have searched existing issues and this hasn't been reported yet
• [x] This is a single bug report (please file separate reports for different bugs)
• [x] I am using the latest version of Claude Code

What's Wrong?

The Claude Desktop app no longer shows persistent navigation tabs for switching between Chat, Cowork, and Code. The app opens in Chat mode with no visible, clickable way to switch modes from the main navigation, even though Code and Cowork are enabled in Settings.

The official documentation (https://code.claude.com/docs/en/desktop) states the desktop app has three tabs — Chat, Cowork, and Code — that should be switchable with a single click. That navigation is not present.

This appears related to prior reports (#48676, #71536, #79054) but is filed fresh because it reproduces on a current build well past the versions in those (now stale) threads.

What Should Happen?

Persistent, clickable Chat / Cowork / Code navigation in the desktop app, matching the browser experience and the documented three-tab layout, switchable with a single click.

Error Messages/Logs

Happy to provide logs from `~/Library/Logs/Claude` or `%APPDATA%`-equivalent paths if useful.

Steps to Reproduce

1. Open the Claude Desktop app on macOS, signed in on an account with Code and Cowork access.
2. Observe the main window: it opens in Chat with no persistent Chat / Cowork / Code tabs in the sidebar or header.
3. Confirm in Settings that Code and Cowork are enabled.
4. Open claude.ai in a browser with the same account — the mode navigation appears correctly.

Claude Model

Not sure / Multiple models

Is this a regression?

Yes, this worked in a previous version

Last Working Version

_No response_

Claude Code Version

• Claude version: 1.40609.0 (f65e38) 2026-08-27T16:19:51.000Z

Platform

Anthropic API

Operating System

macOS

Terminal/Shell

Terminal.app (macOS)

Additional Information

• Restarted the app and the machine
• Confirmed on latest version (no pending update in Claude → Check for Updates)
• Verified the same account shows correct navigation in the browser