Claude Code v2.1.169: Safe Mode Flag, /cd Command, and disableBundledSkills Setting
Anthropic
Version 2.1.169 (June 8, 2026) adds a `--safe-mode` flag (and `CLAUDE_CODE_SAFE_MODE` env var) that disables all customizations — CLAUDE.md, plugins, skills, hooks, MCP servers — for clean troubleshooting. The `/cd` command allows moving a session to a new working directory without breaking prompt cache. A `disableBundledSkills` setting hides bundled skills and built-in slash commands from the model. Fixes include Up/Down arrow navigation in long input lines, enterprise MCP policy enforcement bugs, a macOS UI stall for claude.ai-authenticated users, and `claude -p` slowness on Windows (regression from 2.1.161). Previous v2.1.166 (June 6) added `fallbackModel` support for up to three fallback models, glob pattern support in deny rules, and hardened cross-session messaging security.
Why it matters
The safe-mode flag gives teams a reliable escape hatch for diagnosing agent misbehavior without disabling their entire configuration permanently. The fallbackModel setting significantly improves reliability under API overload conditions, reducing interruptions for high-traffic teams.
Importance: 3/5
Anthropic dev tooling release; notable improvements to configuration control and reliability for production teams.