Claude Code adds live elapsed-time counter to collapsed tool summary
TL;DR
Claude Code now displays a live elapsed-time counter in the collapsed tool summary line for long-running tool calls.
What changed
Developers using claude-code now see a live elapsed-time counter on the collapsed tool summary line. Vibe Builders and Basic Users will notice tool calls ticking visibly during execution instead of freezing in place. The update applies directly to long-running operations in the interface.
Why it matters
This change helps developers track progress on tasks that extend beyond 60 seconds without guessing at status. Basic Users gain reassurance during waits that previously looked stalled, a concrete improvement over static summaries in tools like GitHub Copilot. Vibe Builders can maintain flow when iterating on extended calls.
What to watch for
Compare the counter behavior against Cursor to see differences in collapsed views. Verify by launching a tool call that runs for at least 30 seconds and confirming the timer updates live in the summary.
Who this matters for
- Vibe Builders: Run long-running Claude Code tasks and watch the live timer to confirm the process is active.
Harsh’s take
A live timer on collapsed tool calls is a small but necessary UX fix. When terminal tools run for minutes without feedback, builders assume the process crashed and hit control-C, wasting API credits and time. This update keeps the feedback loop tight during long generations.
Compare this to Cursor or GitHub Copilot, which often leave you guessing during complex multi-file edits. Watch the timer on your next heavy refactor to gauge real-world execution speeds.
by Harsh Desai
About Claude Code
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