VibePad – Control AI coding assistants with a gamepad from your couch

Summary: VibePad is a free macOS menu bar app that maps gamepad buttons to keyboard shortcuts for AI coding tools like Claude Code and Codex. It enables core actions such as accept, reject, scroll, navigate, and dictate using a PS5 controller. Configuration is customizable via a JSON file, and it operates natively in Swift using macOS Accessibility API.

What it does

VibePad detects a connected gamepad and translates its inputs into keypresses to control AI coding workflows. It supports hold-to-talk dictation, scrolling, and navigation mapped to specific controller buttons and sticks.

Who it's for

It is designed for developers using AI coding assistants who prefer controlling repetitive actions with a gamepad instead of a keyboard.

Why it matters

VibePad reduces the need for keyboard use in AI coding sessions by streamlining common commands through a gamepad, enhancing comfort and workflow efficiency.