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Ground Control
About Ground Control
Ground Control connects an iPhone app to active Claude Code sessions running on a Mac. The desktop component, installed via a single terminal command, discovers running sessions and displays a QR code for pairing. Once paired, the phone app shows each session as a unique pixel pilot that reflects its status. Users can view streaming replies, send new instructions, and approve risky actions from anywhere. Messages sent from the phone are typed into the local terminal in real time, keeping both screens synchronized. All communication is end-to-end encrypted using ChaCha20-Poly1305, with keys generated and retained only on the user’s devices. No accounts, databases, or servers are involved, and conversations are never stored externally. The service runs in the background on the Mac and updates itself automatically.
Key features
- Live terminal sync
- Remote approval for risky actions
- Unique pixel pilots per session
- Background daemon on Mac
- Self-updating service
- Encrypted message relay
- Status-based pilot colors
- QR-code pairing
Use cases
- Monitor long-running code generation while away from desk
- Approve or deny prompts from a mobile device
- Continue coding sessions from a different location
Pros
- No accounts or sign-up required
- End-to-end encrypted communication
- Real-time terminal synchronization with Terminal, iTerm2, and tmux
- Self-updating background daemon on Mac
- QR-code pairing for secure handshake
Cons
- Requires a Mac running Claude Code
- iPhone only, no Android support
- Limited to Claude Code sessions at launch
- One-time macOS automation permission needed
Frequently asked questions about Ground Control
What do I need to use Ground Control?
A Mac running Claude Code, an iPhone, and one terminal command to install the daemon.
Can Ground Control read my code or chats?
No. All communication is end-to-end encrypted using ChaCha20-Poly1305, with keys generated and retained only on the user’s devices.
How does Ground Control handle risky actions from agents?
Claude Code pauses before risky actions, and the request appears on the phone for approval or denial from anywhere.
Does Ground Control work with other CLI agents besides Claude Code?
Claude Code is supported first, with more agents planned once the fleet is stable.
Why aren't messages from my phone appearing in the terminal?
Typing into the terminal requires a one-time macOS permission. Open System Settings, then Privacy and Security, then Automation, and enable node for your terminal app.
Which terminal apps support live typing from the phone?
Terminal, iTerm2, and tmux support live typing, keeping both screens synchronized.