I had this article catch my eye based on a partially good name (the Chad part) about what could be the next evolution of IDEs. An upcoming vibe coding IDE, Chad: The Brainrot IDE, is being developed that will do its best to keep your attention while you wait for AI to complete your coding request by distracting you with your brainrot of choice.
When setting up your IDE, you can choose your brainrot options from a list featuring TikTok, Clash Royale, chess, sports betting, and more.
The company, Clad Labs, claims:
These aren’t just distractions — they’re productivity tools. By keeping your attention within the IDE during generation time, we prevent the costly context switches that occur when developers reach for their phones.
I’m curious how someone like author and professor Cal Newport interprets this as he’s said “switching your attention — even if only for a minute or two — can significantly impede your cognitive function for a long time to follow.” Does staying focused in the same window count as keeping your attention? I’m not so sure.
Will this idea pick up steam? Perhaps it will, and a similar option will find its way into the next version of SQL Server Management Studio. If that’s the case, my motivation and effectiveness may take a hit. Why bother tuning a query to make it faster when that may potentially reduce brainrot time?
It’s not like this IDE is being forced on anyone. No one can argue it’s a unique concept, and if it helps others manage their time better, more power to them!
At the same time, using this would feel to me like trying to watch sports as a non-gambler while being endlessly bombarded with gambling ads. I’m here for the sport; don’t overwhelm me with distractions.
If you’re interested in reading more about “the brainrot ide,” then click here to check out their blog.
Thanks for reading!
Chad Callihan 