VibePad is a macOS menu bar application designed to enable developers to control their AI coding assistants using a gamepad controller. The primary purpose is to provide an alternative input method for coding workflows, allowing users to interact with AI tools like Claude Code and Codex CLI without needing to use a keyboard or mouse.

Key features include AI Chat Control for accepting, canceling, and navigating AI suggestions, Voice Input activated by holding L2 for voice-to-text dictation, and Smart Paste that auto-detects clipboard content to paste images as visual context or text as code. Additional capabilities include Mouse & Scroll functionality using analog sticks for cursor movement and scrolling with adjustable sensitivity, Tab & App Switching via the D-pad with L1 held for a second layer including app switching and window management, and Full Customization allowing users to remap every button through a JSON config file.

The app works by mapping gamepad buttons to keyboard shortcuts and actions specific to AI coding tools. It provides base and L1 layers for commands, with analog precision controls and dead zone adjustments. The approach focuses on creating a seamless controller-based interface for coding tasks.

Benefits include enhanced productivity by enabling coding from comfortable positions like a couch, natural interaction through voice input, and streamlined workflow management. Use cases involve submitting prompts, cycling through chat history, managing AI suggestions, and navigating development environments entirely with a gamepad.

Target users are developers working with AI coding assistants such as Claude Code and Codex CLI on macOS. The app supports PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo, MFi, and generic HID controllers, requires macOS 14+, and integrates with terminal environments. It is built natively in Swift and is open source.