@codexstar/pi-side-chat

Standalone side chat for Pi CLI — parallel AI agent with read-only tools

Package details

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extension

Install @codexstar/pi-side-chat from npm and Pi will load the resources declared by the package manifest.

npm report
$ pi install npm:@codexstar/pi-side-chat
Package
@codexstar/pi-side-chat
Version
1.0.2
Published
Apr 28, 2026
Downloads
176/mo · 139/wk
Author
engaze
License
MIT
Types
extension
Size
181.2 KB
Dependencies
0 dependencies · 5 peers
Pi manifest JSON
{
  "extensions": [
    "./extensions/side-chat-extension.ts"
  ]
}

Security note

Pi packages can execute code and influence agent behavior. Review the source before installing third-party packages.

README

What is this?

A floating AI chat panel that runs alongside your main Pi coding agent. Open it with Alt+/ and ask questions about what the agent is doing, get a session recap, check if the agent is stuck, or just chat.

  • Parallel AI instance — does not interrupt your main agent
  • Read-only tools only — safe inspection, no accidental file edits
  • peek_main tool — lets the side chat see what the main agent is working on
  • Built-in shortcuts — type analyze, stuck, recap, status, or help
  • Per-session conversations — each new session starts fresh

Install

pi install @codexstar/pi-side-chat

Usage

Action How
Open/toggle chat Alt+/ or /sidechat
Send message Type + Enter
Close Esc
Unfocus (back to main) Alt+/ again
Open settings /sidechat-settings

Settings

Run /sidechat-settings to configure:

  • Model — pick any available model or use the session default
  • Width/Height — adjust the overlay size
  • Enable/Disable — toggle the extension

Settings persist to ~/.pi/side-chat/config.json.

Requirements

  • Pi CLI with extension support
  • Node.js >= 18.17

License

MIT