Claude Code adds AGENTS.md support as a built-in mod

Claude Code now supports AGENTS.md as a fallback when CLAUDE.md isn’t present, starting in version 2.1.277. The behavior can be toggled via /config and is powered by upcoming Claude Code mods for deeper customization.

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Claude
Claude Code adds AGENTS.md support as a built-in mod

TL;DR

  • AGENTS.md support: Claude Code checks AGENTS.md if CLAUDE.md is absent (from v2.1.277)
  • Configurable behavior: Enable or disable via /config
  • Claude Code mods: Implemented as a built-in mod on the upcoming customization system
  • Custom instructions: Claimed support for custom versions of project instructions via mods
  • Source available: Mod source linked at https://t.co/ZGJxRbh33b
  • UI detail: Setting labeled CLAUDE.md while referencing @AGENTS.md in the project-instruction workflow

Claude Code now supports AGENTS.md, according to an announcement from Thariq on X. Starting with version 2.1.277, the tool checks for and uses AGENTS.md when a folder does not contain CLAUDE.md. The behavior can be enabled or disabled through /config.

The feature is built on Claude Code mods, an upcoming system for customizing the Claude Code harness. Thariq describes AGENTS.md support as a built-in mod and claims that custom versions of project instructions will also be possible.

The mod’s source is available through this link. A Claude Code interface labels the setting CLAUDE.md while referencing @AGENTS.md, tying the new file convention to the tool’s existing project-instruction workflow.

The announcement drew a mix of approval and criticism on X. Some replies welcomed the change, while others characterized it as basic support rather than a new capability. One question asked whether skills stored in a .agents folder would also be supported; no answer to that question appears in the supplied posts.

Source: Thariq on X

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