Problem

Users cannot type or provide input while the agent is executing actions, unlike other AI tools (e.g., Claude) where users can interrupt or provide guidance during execution.

Current Behavior

• When agent is running, input is blocked
• Users must use Ctrl-P to pause, then provide input
• No way to provide real-time guidance or corrections

Expected Behavior

• Allow users to type during action execution
• Provide immediate feedback or corrections
• Similar UX to Claude and other AI tools where users can interrupt naturally

User Experience Impact

• Frustration: Cannot provide immediate feedback
• Workflow interruption: Must pause, then speak, then resume
• Missed opportunities: Cannot guide the agent in real-time

Current Workaround

Users must:

1. Press Ctrl-P to pause
2. Wait for pause confirmation
3. Type their message
4. Use /resume to continue

Proposed Solution

1. Concurrent input: Allow input during action execution
2. Smart interruption: Automatically pause when user starts typing
3. Queue management: Handle user input appropriately during execution

Technical Context

The issue is in the input handling during agent execution. The process_agent_pause() function only listens for specific key combinations, and the main input loop is blocked during execution.

Related Files

• openhands/cli/tui.py (process_agent_pause function, read_prompt_input)
• openhands/cli/main.py (event handling and input management)

Comparison

• Claude: Users can type anytime and the system handles interruption gracefully
• OpenHands CLI: Requires explicit pause before input