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Claude Code Updates Include Fable 5.1, Background Computer Use, and Live Diff Panel

Claude Code has introduced several new features, including the availability of Claude Fable 5.1, background computer use on macOS, and an enhanced live diff panel for editing.

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Source · Sep 15, 2026, 12:38 AM · On Illumora · Sep 15, 2026, 12:43 AM

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Read the source →Claude Code What's New + releases — Week 36 · August 31 – September 4, 2026 - Claude Code Docs
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Claude Code has rolled out updates that include the integration of Claude Fable 5.1, new background computer use capabilities for macOS users, and an improved live diff panel. These features aim to refine the development workflow within the platform.

Key Points

  • Claude Fable 5.1 is now available in Claude Code, offering a 1M-token context window.
  • The fable alias in Claude Code now selects Fable 5.1.
  • On macOS, the Claude Code Desktop app supports background computer use for Pro and Max plans, allowing Claude to interact with approved applications while the user works.
  • A live diff panel in fullscreen rendering (v2.1.260 or later) now appears beside the conversation, listing changed files and line counts.
  • The /skill-doctor command (v2.1.252 or later) reports skill costs in context and usage frequency.
  • Claude Code Remote sessions now include a fast mode, applicable where organizations allow it.
  • Mouse support has been added to the /config panel in fullscreen mode.

Context

According to the Claude Code documentation, Claude Fable 5.1 is accessible within the platform, with the fable alias automatically pointing to it. For Claude apps gateway sessions, fable continues to select Fable 5, unless the gateway serves Fable 5.1, in which case users can run /model claude-fable-5-1. The background computer use feature on macOS is in beta for Pro and Max plans. The live diff panel, available in v2.1.260 or later, refreshes with each edit or shell command. The /skill-doctor command, requiring v2.1.252 or later, helps users manage skill context costs.

Why It Matters

These updates provide developers with more advanced tools and improved workflow efficiencies within Claude Code. The expanded context window of Claude Fable 5.1 and the ability for Claude to operate in the background can enhance productivity, while the detailed diff panel and skill management tools offer greater control over development processes and resource usage.

What To Do

  • To use Claude Fable 5.1, switch your current session using /model fable.
  • For macOS users on Pro or Max plans, test the background computer use feature by approving applications for Claude to interact with.
  • Explore the new live diff panel by typing /diff in fullscreen rendering within a git repository and a terminal at least 110 columns wide.
  • Run /skill-doctor in an interactive session to review skill costs and usage, then consider which skills to disable.