add firestore terraform

Assists people who want to self-host and need particular firestore config

.github/workflows/_deploy.yml

@@ -79,7 +79,7 @@ jobs:
         run: |
           if [ "${{ inputs.module }}" = "migrations" ]; then
             kubectl delete job migrations --ignore-not-found
-            skaffold run -p migrations --tail
+            skaffold run -p migrations
           else
             skaffold run -p ${{ inputs.environment }} -m ${{ inputs.module }}
           fi

.gitignore

@@ -5,3 +5,4 @@ build/
 compile_commands.json
 CMakeLists.txt.user
 tags
+project.el

README.md

@@ -0,0 +1,7 @@
+# Flowy.llink
+
+This project was a radical experiment to transform how teams communicate. The experience revolves around async voice and video clips, with the playback experience being somewhat like Instagram stories that auto-play.
+
+The goal was to replace live Zoom-style meetings, which are draining, and bring relief to teams by making more conversations async, while retaining natural and high-fidelity with pitch, tone, facial expressions.
+
+Due to changing conditions in the environment with regards to AI and data sovereignty (and lack of desire to maintain and market this product), we have decided to open source it. Now you can clone, modify, and host it in your own cloud.

go/Makefile

@@ -38,12 +38,12 @@ PROD_REPO := us-west2-docker.pkg.dev/flowy-prod-440017/deployments
 .PHONY: migrate-dev
 migrate-dev:
 	kubectl delete job migrations --ignore-not-found --context=dev
-	SKAFFOLD_DEFAULT_REPO=$(DEV_REPO) skaffold run -p migrations --kube-context dev --tail
+	SKAFFOLD_DEFAULT_REPO=$(DEV_REPO) skaffold run -p migrations --kube-context dev
 
 .PHONY: migrate-prod
 migrate-prod:
 	kubectl delete job migrations --ignore-not-found --context=prod
-	SKAFFOLD_DEFAULT_REPO=$(PROD_REPO) skaffold run -p migrations --kube-context prod --tail
+	SKAFFOLD_DEFAULT_REPO=$(PROD_REPO) skaffold run -p migrations --kube-context prod
 
 # ---- Deploy ----
 # Use MODULE=orion or MODULE=particleprocessor or MODULE=pusher or MODULE=emailnotifierjob to deploy a single service, e.g.:

go/Taskfile.yml

@@ -1,99 +0,0 @@
-version: '3'
-
-vars:
-  DEV_REPO: us-west2-docker.pkg.dev/flowy-dev-440017/deployments
-  PROD_REPO: us-west2-docker.pkg.dev/flowy-prod-440017/deployments
-
-tasks:
-  generate:
-    desc: Generate protobuf code and run go generate
-    cmds:
-      - task: genproto
-      - go generate ./...
-
-  format:
-    desc: Format go files
-    cmds:
-      - go fmt ./...
-
-  genproto:
-    desc: Generate Go code from .proto files via docker
-    vars:
-      PROTO_DIR: '{{.PROTO_DIR | default "./protocol"}}'
-      OUT_DIR: '{{.OUT_DIR | default "./genproto"}}'
-    cmds:
-      - 'echo "Proto directory: {{.PROTO_DIR}}"'
-      - 'echo "Output directory: {{.OUT_DIR}}"'
-      - rm -rf {{.OUT_DIR}}
-      - mkdir -p {{.OUT_DIR}}
-      - |
-        docker run --rm \
-          -v "{{.PROTO_DIR}}/":/protocol \
-          -v "{{.OUT_DIR}}":/genproto \
-          --workdir / \
-          talksik/golang-protoc:latest \
-          sh -c 'protoc --proto_path=./protocol \
-                        --go_out=./genproto \
-                        --go_opt=paths=source_relative \
-                        --go-grpc_out=./genproto \
-                        --go-grpc_opt=paths=source_relative \
-                        $(find ./protocol -name "*.proto")'
-
-  test:
-    desc: Run tests with pretty output via gotestfmt
-    cmds:
-      - go test -json ./... | docker run -i ghcr.io/gotesttools/gotestfmt:latest
-
-  create-migration:
-    desc: 'Create new migration (usage: task create-migration ARG=create_users_table)'
-    cmds:
-      - 'echo "Creating migration with name {{.ARG}}"'
-      - docker run -v ./migrations:/migrations --network host migrate/migrate create -ext sql -seq -dir /migrations {{.ARG}}
-
-  dev-database:
-    desc: Open psql shell against the dev database
-    interactive: true
-    cmds:
-      - |
-        kubectl run postgres-client \
-          --rm -it --image=postgres:latest \
-          --env="LLINK_POSTGRES_CONNECTION_URL=$(kubectl get secret shared-secrets -o jsonpath='{.data.LLINK_POSTGRES_CONNECTION_URL}' --context dev | base64 --decode)" \
-          --context dev \
-          --command -- /bin/bash -c "psql \$LLINK_POSTGRES_CONNECTION_URL"
-
-  prod-database:
-    desc: Open psql shell against the prod database
-    interactive: true
-    cmds:
-      - |
-        kubectl run postgres-client \
-          --rm -it --image=postgres:latest \
-          --env="LLINK_POSTGRES_CONNECTION_URL=$(kubectl get secret shared-secrets -o jsonpath='{.data.LLINK_POSTGRES_CONNECTION_URL}' --context prod | base64 --decode)" \
-          --context prod \
-          --command -- /bin/bash -c "psql \$LLINK_POSTGRES_CONNECTION_URL"
-
-  migrate-dev:
-    desc: Run migrations against dev cluster
-    cmds:
-      - kubectl delete job migrations --ignore-not-found --context=dev
-      - SKAFFOLD_DEFAULT_REPO={{.DEV_REPO}} skaffold run -p migrations --kube-context dev --tail
-
-  migrate-prod:
-    desc: Run migrations against prod cluster
-    cmds:
-      - kubectl delete job migrations --ignore-not-found --context=prod
-      - SKAFFOLD_DEFAULT_REPO={{.PROD_REPO}} skaffold run -p migrations --kube-context prod --tail
-
-  deploy-dev:
-    desc: 'Deploy to dev (optionally MODULE=orion to deploy a single service)'
-    cmds:
-      - task: generate
-      - task: test
-      - SKAFFOLD_DEFAULT_REPO={{.DEV_REPO}} skaffold run -p dev {{if .MODULE}}-m {{.MODULE}}{{end}} --kube-context dev --port-forward --tail
-
-  deploy-prod:
-    desc: 'Deploy to prod (optionally MODULE=orion to deploy a single service)'
-    cmds:
-      - task: generate
-      - task: test
-      - SKAFFOLD_DEFAULT_REPO={{.PROD_REPO}} skaffold run -p prod {{if .MODULE}}-m {{.MODULE}}{{end}} --kube-context prod --port-forward --tail

go/firestore.rules

@@ -0,0 +1,19 @@
+rules_version = '2';
+service cloud.firestore {
+  match /databases/{database}/documents {
+
+    // Per-human membership mirror maintained by Orion's service account.
+    // Locked from clients so the membership list cannot leak or be mutated.
+    match /humans/{humanId} {
+      allow read, write: if false;
+    }
+
+    // Particles: caller must be a current member of the network in the path.
+    // get() on the mirror is cached across rule evaluations within a single
+    // request, so this costs 1 billed read per request regardless of query size.
+    match /networks/{networkId}/children/{particleId=**} {
+      allow read, write: if request.auth != null
+        && networkId in get(/databases/$(database)/documents/humans/$(request.auth.uid)).data.networks;
+    }
+  }
+}

go/firestore.tf

@@ -0,0 +1,109 @@
+resource "google_firebase_project" "default" {
+  provider = google-beta
+  project  = var.project_id
+
+  depends_on = [module.project-services]
+}
+
+# Provisions the Firestore database instance.
+resource "google_firestore_database" "firestore" {
+  provider = google-beta
+  project  = google_firebase_project.default.project
+  name     = "(default)"
+  # See available locations: https://firebase.google.com/docs/firestore/locations
+  location_id = var.location
+  # "FIRESTORE_NATIVE" is required to use Firestore with Firebase SDKs, authentication, and Firebase Security Rules.
+  type             = "FIRESTORE_NATIVE"
+  concurrency_mode = "OPTIMISTIC"
+}
+
+resource "google_firebaserules_ruleset" "default" {
+  provider = google-beta
+  project  = google_firestore_database.firestore.project
+  source {
+    files {
+      name = "firestore.rules"
+      # Write security rules in a local file named "firestore.rules".
+      # Learn more: https://firebase.google.com/docs/firestore/security/get-started
+      content = file("firestore.rules")
+    }
+  }
+}
+
+resource "google_firebaserules_release" "firestore" {
+  provider     = google-beta
+  name         = "cloud.firestore"
+  ruleset_name = google_firebaserules_ruleset.default.name
+  project      = google_firestore_database.firestore.project
+}
+
+resource "google_firebase_web_app" "llink" {
+  provider     = google-beta
+  project      = google_firebase_project.default.project
+  display_name = "Llink app"
+}
+
+data "google_firebase_web_app_config" "llink" {
+  provider   = google-beta
+  project    = var.project_id
+  web_app_id = google_firebase_web_app.llink.app_id
+}
+
+// Below indices support the new structure where all subcollections (including network root particles) live under a collection of name "children"
+// instead of having `network/n_xxx/particles/p_yyy/children` where the top level subcollection of particles has a distinct name
+
+// Collection index for particles in a single subcollection
+resource "google_firestore_index" "list_particles_index" {
+  project     = var.project_id
+  collection  = "children"
+  query_scope = "COLLECTION"
+
+  fields {
+    field_path   = "visible_to"
+    array_config = "CONTAINS"
+  }
+
+  fields {
+    field_path = "status"
+    order      = "ASCENDING"
+  }
+
+  fields {
+    field_path = "last_child_created_at"
+    order      = "DESCENDING"
+  }
+
+  fields {
+    field_path = "__name__"
+    order      = "DESCENDING"
+  }
+
+  depends_on = [google_firestore_database.firestore]
+}
+
+// Collection group index for particles across all subcollections
+resource "google_firestore_field" "particle_children_created_at" {
+  database   = google_firestore_database.firestore.name
+  project    = var.project_id
+  collection = "children"
+  field      = "created_at"
+
+  index_config {
+    indexes {
+      order       = "DESCENDING"
+      query_scope = "COLLECTION_GROUP"
+    }
+    indexes {
+      order       = "ASCENDING"
+      query_scope = "COLLECTION_GROUP"
+    }
+    indexes {
+      order       = "DESCENDING"
+      query_scope = "COLLECTION"
+    }
+    indexes {
+      order       = "ASCENDING"
+      query_scope = "COLLECTION"
+    }
+  }
+}

go/k8s/prod/orion.yaml

@@ -69,9 +69,9 @@ spec:
               name: shared-secrets
               key: STRIPE_WEBHOOK_SECRET
         - name: "STRIPE_PRICE_PRO_MONTHLY"
-          value: "price_1TMBElJu6RWBXAm2pPthUoh6"
+          value: "price_1ToweOJu6RWBXAm2w2wTo8VL"
         - name: "STRIPE_PRICE_PRO_ANNUAL"
-          value: "price_1TMBElJu6RWBXAm2TOpzdXk5"
+          value: "price_1TowexJu6RWBXAm2G9M0WJBK"
         - name: "BILLING_SUCCESS_URL"
           value: "llink://billing/success"
         - name: "BILLING_CANCEL_URL"

js/desktop/index.html

@@ -1,8 +1,24 @@
 <!doctype html>
-<html class="dark">
+<html>
   <head>
     <meta charset="UTF-8" />
     <title>llink</title>
+    <script>
+      // Apply the stored theme before first paint to avoid a flash. Mirrors
+      // the logic in stores/theme-store.ts; defaults to dark.
+      try {
+        var m = localStorage.getItem('llink:theme');
+        var dark =
+          m === 'light'
+            ? false
+            : m === 'system'
+              ? matchMedia('(prefers-color-scheme: dark)').matches
+              : true;
+        if (dark) document.documentElement.classList.add('dark');
+      } catch (e) {
+        document.documentElement.classList.add('dark');
+      }
+    </script>
   </head>
   <body>
     <div id="root"></div>

js/desktop/package.json

@@ -1,7 +1,7 @@
 {
   "name": "Flowy.llink",
   "productName": "Flowy.llink",
-  "version": "1.5.2",
+  "version": "1.9.0",
   "description": "Flowy.llink is a video messaging app for teams",
   "main": ".vite/build/main.js",
   "private": true,
@@ -64,6 +64,7 @@
     "@livekit/components-react": "^2.9.20",
     "@livekit/components-styles": "^1.2.0",
     "@milkdown/crepe": "^7.21.1",
+    "@milkdown/kit": "7.21.1",
     "@sentry/electron": "^7.11.0",
     "@sentry/react": "^10.54.0",
     "@tanstack/react-query": "^5.90.21",

js/desktop/src/App.tsx

@@ -23,12 +23,18 @@ import {
 import { SoundEffectsProvider } from '@/lib/sound-effects/sound-effects-provider';
 import { platform } from '@/lib/platform';
 import { InAppAutoplayCard } from '@/components/in-app-autoplay-card';
+import { useOnboardingStore } from '@/stores/onboarding-store';
+import { OnboardingOverlay } from '@/features/onboarding/onboarding-overlay';
 
 const queryClient = createQueryClient();
 
 const App = () => {
   const status = useAuthStore((s) => s.status);
   const restoreSession = useAuthStore((s) => s.restoreSession);
+  const hasCompletedOnboarding = useOnboardingStore(
+    (s) => s.hasCompletedOnboarding,
+  );
+  const markOnboardingComplete = useOnboardingStore((s) => s.markComplete);
 
   useEffect(() => {
     restoreSession();
@@ -46,6 +52,10 @@ const App = () => {
     return <LoginPage />;
   }
 
+  if (!hasCompletedOnboarding) {
+    return <OnboardingOverlay onComplete={markOnboardingComplete} />;
+  }
+
   return (
     <PusherProvider>
       <AuthenticatedApp />

js/desktop/src/api/types.ts

@@ -146,14 +146,21 @@ export const TextPropertiesSchema = z.object({
 });
 export type TextProperties = z.infer<typeof TextPropertiesSchema>;
 
-export const QuestPropertiesSchema = z.object({
+export const ChecklistItemSchema = z.object({
+  text: z.string(),
+  done: z.boolean(),
+});
+export type ChecklistItem = z.infer<typeof ChecklistItemSchema>;
+
+export const TaskPropertiesSchema = z.object({
   title: z.string(),
-  description: z.string(),
-  status: z.string().optional(),
+  notes: z.string().optional(),
+  checklist: z.array(ChecklistItemSchema).optional(),
   // humanId
   assigned_to: z.string().optional(),
+  done: z.boolean(),
 });
-export type QuestProperties = z.infer<typeof QuestPropertiesSchema>;
+export type TaskProperties = z.infer<typeof TaskPropertiesSchema>;
 
 export const PaperPropertiesSchema = z.object({
   title: z.string(),
@@ -194,7 +201,7 @@ export interface ParticlePropertiesMap {
   media: MediaProperties;
   file: FileProperties;
   text: TextProperties;
-  quest: QuestProperties;
+  task: TaskProperties;
   paper: PaperProperties;
 }
 
@@ -211,6 +218,9 @@ export const ParticleSchema = z.discriminatedUnion('type', [
   ParticleBaseSchema.extend({
     type: z.literal('stream'),
     properties: StreamPropertiesSchema,
+    // Open/closed lifecycle. Optional because some streams were created while
+    // the field was dropped — treat missing as 'open' (see isStreamOpen).
+    status: z.enum(['open', 'closed']).optional(),
     // e.g. ["human:human_xxxx", "human:human_yyyy"] - visible only to Aron and John
     // e.g. ["network:xywx"] - visible to everyone in the network
     visible_to: z.array(z.string()),
@@ -221,7 +231,6 @@ export const ParticleSchema = z.discriminatedUnion('type', [
     last_child_created_at: z.coerce.date().optional(),
     // Array of humanIds currently in the huddle (updated via LiveKit webhooks)
     huddle_active_participants: z.array(z.string()).optional(),
-    status: z.enum(['open', 'closed']).optional(),
   }),
   ParticleBaseSchema.extend({
     type: z.literal('folder'),
@@ -229,6 +238,9 @@ export const ParticleSchema = z.discriminatedUnion('type', [
     // e.g. ["human:human_xxxx", "human:human_yyyy"] - visible only to Aron and John
     // e.g. ["network:123"] - visible to everyone in the network
     visible_to: z.array(z.string()),
+    // Set to created_at on creation, bumped when children are added — keeps
+    // folders present in activity-ordered container queries.
+    last_child_created_at: z.coerce.date().optional(),
   }),
   ParticleBaseSchema.extend({
     type: z.literal('media'),
@@ -248,8 +260,9 @@ export const ParticleSchema = z.discriminatedUnion('type', [
     ...TombstoneFields,
   }),
   ParticleBaseSchema.extend({
-    type: z.literal('quest'),
-    properties: QuestPropertiesSchema,
+    type: z.literal('task'),
+    properties: TaskPropertiesSchema,
+    reactions: ReactionsSchema,
     ...TombstoneFields,
   }),
   ParticleBaseSchema.extend({
@@ -259,17 +272,28 @@ export const ParticleSchema = z.discriminatedUnion('type', [
   }),
 ]);
 
-export type Particle = z.infer<typeof ParticleSchema>;
+// Placeholder for docs whose `type` this client version doesn't recognize
+// (e.g. a newer client wrote a particle type we don't ship yet). The converter
+// maps them here instead of throwing, so they degrade to an "unsupported"
+// view rather than breaking the whole subscription.
+export const UnknownParticleSchema = ParticleBaseSchema.extend({
+  type: z.literal('unknown'),
+  raw_type: z.string(),
+});
+export type UnknownParticle = z.infer<typeof UnknownParticleSchema>;
 
-export type ParticleType = Particle['type'];
+export type Particle = z.infer<typeof ParticleSchema> | UnknownParticle;
+
+/** Particle types this client can read and write — excludes 'unknown'. */
+export type ParticleType = z.infer<typeof ParticleSchema>['type'];
 
 /** Container types can have children subcollections */
-export const CONTAINER_TYPES: ReadonlySet<ParticleType> = new Set([
+export const CONTAINER_TYPES: ReadonlySet<Particle['type']> = new Set([
   'stream',
   'folder',
 ]);
 
-export function isContainerType(type: ParticleType): boolean {
+export function isContainerType(type: Particle['type']): boolean {
   return CONTAINER_TYPES.has(type);
 }
 
@@ -278,6 +302,11 @@ export function isParticleDeleted(particle: Particle): boolean {
   return 'deleted_at' in particle && particle.deleted_at != null;
 }
 
+/** Missing status counts as open (streams created while the field was dropped). */
+export function isStreamOpen(stream: Extract<Particle, { type: 'stream' }>) {
+  return stream.status !== 'closed';
+}
+
 // --- LiveKit types ---
 
 export const GetLivekitTokenResponseSchema = z.object({

js/desktop/src/components/composing-indicator.tsx

@@ -29,14 +29,14 @@ export function ComposingIndicator({
         return (
           <div
             key={u.humanId}
-            className="flex rotate-180 items-center gap-1.5 rounded-full bg-white/10 px-2 py-1 backdrop-blur-sm"
+            className="bg-card/70 border-border flex rotate-180 items-center gap-1.5 rounded-full border px-2 py-1 backdrop-blur-sm"
           >
             <span className="flex gap-0.5">
-              <span className="size-1 rounded-full bg-white/70 animate-bounce [animation-delay:0ms]" />
-              <span className="size-1 rounded-full bg-white/70 animate-bounce [animation-delay:150ms]" />
-              <span className="size-1 rounded-full bg-white/70 animate-bounce [animation-delay:300ms]" />
+              <span className="bg-muted-foreground size-1 animate-bounce rounded-full [animation-delay:0ms]" />
+              <span className="bg-muted-foreground size-1 animate-bounce rounded-full [animation-delay:150ms]" />
+              <span className="bg-muted-foreground size-1 animate-bounce rounded-full [animation-delay:300ms]" />
             </span>
-            <span className="whitespace-nowrap text-[10px] text-white/50">
+            <span className="text-muted-foreground whitespace-nowrap text-[10px]">
               {displayName} {modeLabel}
             </span>
           </div>

js/desktop/src/components/confirm-destructive-overlay.tsx

@@ -38,23 +38,23 @@ export function ConfirmDestructiveOverlay({
   return createPortal(
     <div className="fixed inset-0 z-[100]">
       <div
-        className="absolute inset-0 bg-black/60 backdrop-blur-sm"
+        className="absolute inset-0 bg-scrim/60 backdrop-blur-sm"
         onClick={onClose}
       />
-      <div className="absolute left-1/2 top-1/2 w-full max-w-sm -translate-x-1/2 -translate-y-1/2 rounded-2xl border border-white/10 bg-white/5 p-6 shadow-2xl backdrop-blur-xl">
+      <div className="bg-popover/95 text-popover-foreground border-border absolute left-1/2 top-1/2 w-full max-w-sm -translate-x-1/2 -translate-y-1/2 rounded-2xl border p-6 shadow-2xl backdrop-blur-xl">
         <div className="mb-3 flex items-center justify-between">
-          <h2 className="text-sm font-semibold text-white/70">{title}</h2>
+          <h2 className="text-sm font-semibold">{title}</h2>
           <KeyHint
             keys="Esc"
             onClick={onClose}
             title="Close (or press Esc)"
-            className="text-xs text-white/30"
+            className="text-muted-foreground text-xs"
           >
             to close
           </KeyHint>
         </div>
 
-        <div className="text-sm text-white/60">{description}</div>
+        <div className="text-muted-foreground text-sm">{description}</div>
 
         <div className="mt-5 flex items-center justify-end gap-2">
           <Button

js/desktop/src/components/human-avatar.tsx

@@ -29,7 +29,7 @@ export function HumanAvatar({
   const url = useAvatarUrl(avatarObjectId);
   return (
     <Avatar {...props}>
-      {url && <AvatarImage src={url} alt={initials} />}
+      <AvatarImage src={url} alt={initials} />
       <AvatarFallback className={fallbackClassName}>{initials}</AvatarFallback>
     </Avatar>
   );

js/desktop/src/components/key-hint.tsx

@@ -2,9 +2,10 @@ import { Fragment } from 'react';
 import { Kbd } from '@/components/ui/kbd';
 import { cn } from '@/lib/utils';
 
-/** Dark-overlay chip restyle of the design-system Kbd, kept in one place. */
+/** Chip restyle of the design-system Kbd, kept in one place. Tints to the
+    surrounding text color so it reads on themed panels and over media alike. */
 const chipClass =
-  'rounded bg-white/10 px-1.5 py-0.5 font-mono text-xs font-normal text-current';
+  'rounded bg-current/10 px-1.5 py-0.5 font-mono text-xs font-normal text-current';
 
 interface KeyHintProps {
   /** Key chip(s): "Esc" or ["Esc", "Q"]. */
@@ -68,7 +69,7 @@ export function KeyHint({
       onMouseDown={(e) => e.preventDefault()}
       title={title}
       className={cn(
-        'cursor-pointer rounded transition-colors hover:text-white/80',
+        'cursor-pointer rounded transition-opacity hover:opacity-80',
         className,
       )}
       {...rest}

js/desktop/src/components/keybindings-overlay.tsx

@@ -48,19 +48,19 @@ export function KeybindingsOverlay({
     <div className="fixed inset-0 z-[100]">
       {/* Backdrop */}
       <div
-        className="absolute inset-0 bg-black/60 backdrop-blur-sm"
+        className="absolute inset-0 bg-scrim/60 backdrop-blur-sm"
         onClick={onClose}
       />
       {/* Panel */}
-      <div className="absolute left-1/2 top-1/2 w-full max-w-sm -translate-x-1/2 -translate-y-1/2 rounded-2xl border border-white/10 bg-white/5 p-6 shadow-2xl backdrop-blur-xl">
+      <div className="bg-popover/95 text-popover-foreground border-border absolute left-1/2 top-1/2 w-full max-w-sm -translate-x-1/2 -translate-y-1/2 rounded-2xl border p-6 shadow-2xl backdrop-blur-xl">
         <div className="mb-5 flex items-center justify-between">
-          <h2 className="text-sm font-semibold text-white/70">{title}</h2>
+          <h2 className="text-sm font-semibold">{title}</h2>
           <KeyHint
             keys={['Esc', '?']}
             separator="or"
             onClick={onClose}
             title="Close (or press Esc / ?)"
-            className="text-xs text-white/30"
+            className="text-muted-foreground text-xs"
           >
             to close
           </KeyHint>
@@ -68,21 +68,19 @@ export function KeybindingsOverlay({
         <div className="flex flex-col gap-5">
           {groups.map((group) => (
             <section key={group.label}>
-              <h3 className="mb-2 text-[10px] font-medium uppercase tracking-widest text-white/30">
+              <h3 className="text-muted-foreground mb-2 text-[10px] font-medium uppercase tracking-widest">
                 {group.label}
               </h3>
               <ul className="flex flex-col gap-1">
                 {group.bindings.map((binding) => (
                   <li
                     key={binding.description}
-                    className="flex items-center justify-between border-b border-white/5 pb-1 last:border-0 last:pb-0"
+                    className="border-border flex items-center justify-between border-b pb-1 last:border-0 last:pb-0"
                   >
-                    <span className="text-sm text-white/70">
-                      {binding.description}
-                    </span>
+                    <span className="text-sm">{binding.description}</span>
                     <KeyHint
                       keys={binding.keys}
-                      className="flex items-center gap-1 text-white/60"
+                      className="text-muted-foreground flex items-center gap-1"
                     />
                   </li>
                 ))}

js/desktop/src/components/link-preview-card.tsx

@@ -1,5 +1,5 @@
 import { Copy, ExternalLink, Globe } from 'lucide-react';
-import type { LinkMetadata } from '@/lib/link-metadata';
+import { domainFromUrl, type LinkMetadata } from '@/lib/link-metadata';
 import { Skeleton } from '@/components/ui/skeleton';
 import { Button } from '@/components/ui/button';
 import { platform } from '@/lib/platform';
@@ -22,7 +22,7 @@ export function LinkPreviewCard({ metadata, compact }: LinkPreviewCardProps) {
 
   return (
     <div
-      className="max-w-sm overflow-hidden rounded-2xl bg-white/10 backdrop-blur-md"
+      className="bg-card text-card-foreground border-border max-w-sm overflow-hidden rounded-2xl border"
       onClick={(e) => {
         e.stopPropagation();
         handleOpen(e);
@@ -39,7 +39,7 @@ export function LinkPreviewCard({ metadata, compact }: LinkPreviewCardProps) {
         />
       )}
       <div className="flex flex-col gap-1 p-3">
-        <div className="flex items-center gap-1.5 text-xs text-white/50">
+        <div className="text-muted-foreground flex items-center gap-1.5 text-xs">
           {metadata.favicon ? (
             <img
               src={metadata.favicon}
@@ -57,12 +57,12 @@ export function LinkPreviewCard({ metadata, compact }: LinkPreviewCardProps) {
           <span className="truncate">{metadata.domain}</span>
         </div>
         {metadata.title && (
-          <p className="truncate text-sm font-semibold leading-snug text-white">
+          <p className="truncate text-sm font-semibold leading-snug">
             {metadata.title}
           </p>
         )}
         {metadata.description && (
-          <p className="line-clamp-2 text-xs leading-relaxed text-white/70">
+          <p className="text-muted-foreground line-clamp-2 text-xs leading-relaxed">
             {metadata.description}
           </p>
         )}
@@ -71,7 +71,7 @@ export function LinkPreviewCard({ metadata, compact }: LinkPreviewCardProps) {
             <Button
               variant="ghost"
               size="xs"
-              className="text-white/70 hover:bg-white/10 hover:text-white"
+              className="text-muted-foreground"
               onClick={handleOpen}
             >
               <ExternalLink data-icon="inline-start" />
@@ -80,7 +80,7 @@ export function LinkPreviewCard({ metadata, compact }: LinkPreviewCardProps) {
             <Button
               variant="ghost"
               size="xs"
-              className="text-white/70 hover:bg-white/10 hover:text-white"
+              className="text-muted-foreground"
               onClick={handleCopy}
             >
               <Copy data-icon="inline-start" />
@@ -93,14 +93,30 @@ export function LinkPreviewCard({ metadata, compact }: LinkPreviewCardProps) {
   );
 }
 
+/** Shown when metadata couldn't be fetched — the link itself still works. */
+export function LinkPreviewCardFallback({ url }: { url: string }) {
+  return (
+    <LinkPreviewCard
+      metadata={{
+        url,
+        domain: domainFromUrl(url),
+        title: url,
+        description: null,
+        image: null,
+        favicon: null,
+      }}
+    />
+  );
+}
+
 export function LinkPreviewCardSkeleton() {
   return (
-    <div className="max-w-sm overflow-hidden rounded-2xl bg-white/10 backdrop-blur-md">
-      <Skeleton className="h-32 w-full rounded-none bg-white/5" />
+    <div className="bg-card border-border max-w-sm overflow-hidden rounded-2xl border">
+      <Skeleton className="h-32 w-full rounded-none" />
       <div className="flex flex-col gap-2 p-3">
-        <Skeleton className="h-3 w-24 bg-white/10" />
-        <Skeleton className="h-4 w-48 bg-white/10" />
-        <Skeleton className="h-3 w-full bg-white/10" />
+        <Skeleton className="h-3 w-24" />
+        <Skeleton className="h-4 w-48" />
+        <Skeleton className="h-3 w-full" />
       </div>
     </div>
   );

js/desktop/src/components/screen-source-picker.tsx

@@ -34,13 +34,13 @@ export function ScreenSourcePicker({
   const windows = sources.filter((s) => s.id.startsWith('window:'));
 
   return (
-    <div className="absolute inset-0 z-50 flex items-center justify-center bg-black/90">
-      <div className="mx-4 flex max-h-[80vh] w-full max-w-2xl flex-col rounded-lg bg-zinc-900 shadow-xl">
-        <div className="flex items-center justify-between border-b border-zinc-700 px-5 py-4">
-          <h2 className="text-base font-medium text-zinc-100">{title}</h2>
+    <div className="bg-scrim/80 absolute inset-0 z-50 flex items-center justify-center">
+      <div className="bg-popover text-popover-foreground mx-4 flex max-h-[80vh] w-full max-w-2xl flex-col rounded-lg shadow-xl">
+        <div className="border-border flex items-center justify-between border-b px-5 py-4">
+          <h2 className="text-base font-medium">{title}</h2>
           <button
             onClick={onCancel}
-            className="text-zinc-400 hover:text-zinc-200"
+            className="text-muted-foreground hover:text-foreground"
           >
             ✕
           </button>
@@ -48,7 +48,7 @@ export function ScreenSourcePicker({
 
         <div className="flex-1 overflow-y-auto px-5 py-4">
           {loading ? (
-            <p className="text-center text-sm text-zinc-400">
+            <p className="text-muted-foreground text-center text-sm">
               Loading sources...
             </p>
           ) : (
@@ -73,17 +73,17 @@ export function ScreenSourcePicker({
           )}
         </div>
 
-        <div className="flex justify-end gap-2 border-t border-zinc-700 px-5 py-3">
+        <div className="border-border flex justify-end gap-2 border-t px-5 py-3">
           <button
             onClick={onCancel}
-            className="rounded-md px-4 py-2 text-sm text-zinc-300 hover:bg-zinc-800"
+            className="hover:bg-accent text-muted-foreground rounded-md px-4 py-2 text-sm"
           >
             Cancel
           </button>
           <button
             disabled={!selectedId}
             onClick={() => selectedId && onSelect(selectedId)}
-            className="rounded-md bg-blue-600 px-4 py-2 text-sm font-medium text-white hover:bg-blue-500 disabled:opacity-40 disabled:hover:bg-blue-600"
+            className="bg-primary text-primary-foreground rounded-md px-4 py-2 text-sm font-medium hover:bg-primary/90 disabled:opacity-40"
           >
             {confirmLabel}
           </button>
@@ -106,7 +106,7 @@ function SourceSection({
 }) {
   return (
     <div className="mb-4">
-      <h3 className="mb-2 text-xs font-medium uppercase tracking-wide text-zinc-400">
+      <h3 className="text-muted-foreground mb-2 text-xs font-medium uppercase tracking-wide">
         {title}
       </h3>
       <div className="grid grid-cols-3 gap-3">
@@ -116,8 +116,8 @@ function SourceSection({
             onClick={() => onSelect(source.id)}
             className={`overflow-hidden rounded-lg border-2 text-left transition-colors ${
               selectedId === source.id
-                ? 'border-blue-500 bg-zinc-800'
-                : 'border-transparent bg-zinc-800/50 hover:border-zinc-600'
+                ? 'border-primary bg-accent'
+                : 'border-transparent bg-muted hover:border-border'
             }`}
           >
             <img
@@ -125,7 +125,7 @@ function SourceSection({
               alt={source.name}
               className="aspect-video w-full object-cover"
             />
-            <p className="truncate px-2 py-1.5 text-xs text-zinc-300">
+            <p className="text-muted-foreground truncate px-2 py-1.5 text-xs">
               {source.name}
             </p>
           </button>

js/desktop/src/components/ui/dialog.tsx

@@ -39,7 +39,7 @@ function DialogOverlay({
     <DialogPrimitive.Overlay
       data-slot="dialog-overlay"
       className={cn(
-        'data-open:animate-in data-closed:animate-out data-closed:fade-out-0 data-open:fade-in-0 bg-black/10 duration-100 supports-backdrop-filter:backdrop-blur-xs fixed inset-0 isolate z-50',
+        'data-open:animate-in data-closed:animate-out data-closed:fade-out-0 data-open:fade-in-0 bg-scrim/10 duration-100 supports-backdrop-filter:backdrop-blur-xs fixed inset-0 isolate z-50',
         className,
       )}
       {...props}

js/desktop/src/components/ui/scroll-area.tsx

@@ -16,7 +16,7 @@ function ScrollArea({
     >
       <ScrollAreaPrimitive.Viewport
         data-slot="scroll-area-viewport"
-        className="focus-visible:ring-ring/50 size-full rounded-[inherit] transition-[color,box-shadow] outline-none focus-visible:ring-[3px] focus-visible:outline-1"
+        className="focus-visible:ring-ring/50 size-full rounded-[inherit] transition-[color,box-shadow] outline-none focus-visible:ring-[3px] focus-visible:outline-1 [&>div]:!w-full"
       >
         {children}
       </ScrollAreaPrimitive.Viewport>

js/desktop/src/components/ui/slider.tsx

@@ -47,7 +47,7 @@ function Slider({
         <SliderPrimitive.Thumb
           data-slot="slider-thumb"
           key={index}
-          className="relative block size-3 shrink-0 rounded-full border border-ring bg-white ring-ring/50 transition-[color,box-shadow] select-none after:absolute after:-inset-2 hover:ring-3 focus-visible:ring-3 focus-visible:outline-hidden active:ring-3 disabled:pointer-events-none disabled:opacity-50"
+          className="border-ring bg-background ring-ring/50 relative block size-3 shrink-0 select-none rounded-full border transition-[color,box-shadow] after:absolute after:-inset-2 hover:ring-3 focus-visible:outline-hidden focus-visible:ring-3 active:ring-3 disabled:pointer-events-none disabled:opacity-50"
         />
       ))}
     </SliderPrimitive.Root>

js/desktop/src/components/ui/sonner.tsx

@@ -6,11 +6,13 @@ import {
   OctagonXIcon,
   Loader2Icon,
 } from 'lucide-react';
+import { useThemeStore } from '@/stores/theme-store';
 
 const Toaster = ({ ...props }: ToasterProps) => {
+  const isDark = useThemeStore((s) => s.isDark);
   return (
     <Sonner
-      theme="dark"
+      theme={isDark ? 'dark' : 'light'}
       className="toaster group"
       icons={{
         success: <CircleCheckIcon className="size-4" />,

js/desktop/src/components/ui/textarea.tsx

@@ -0,0 +1,18 @@
+import * as React from 'react';
+
+import { cn } from '@/lib/utils';
+
+function Textarea({ className, ...props }: React.ComponentProps<'textarea'>) {
+  return (
+    <textarea
+      data-slot="textarea"
+      className={cn(
+        'flex field-sizing-content min-h-16 w-full rounded-lg border border-input bg-transparent px-2.5 py-2 text-base transition-colors outline-none placeholder:text-muted-foreground focus-visible:border-ring focus-visible:ring-3 focus-visible:ring-ring/50 disabled:cursor-not-allowed disabled:bg-input/50 disabled:opacity-50 aria-invalid:border-destructive aria-invalid:ring-3 aria-invalid:ring-destructive/20 md:text-sm dark:bg-input/30 dark:disabled:bg-input/80 dark:aria-invalid:border-destructive/50 dark:aria-invalid:ring-destructive/40',
+        className,
+      )}
+      {...props}
+    />
+  );
+}
+
+export { Textarea };

js/desktop/src/components/window-controls.tsx

@@ -21,7 +21,7 @@ export function WindowControls() {
       size="icon-sm"
       onClick={() => platform.window.minimize()}
       aria-label="Minimize"
-      className="dark:hover:bg-white/10 rounded text-white/50"
+      className="text-muted-foreground rounded"
     >
       <Minus />
     </Button>
@@ -34,7 +34,7 @@ export function WindowControls() {
       size="icon-sm"
       onClick={() => platform.window.maximize()}
       aria-label={isMaximized ? 'Restore' : 'Maximize'}
-      className="dark:hover:bg-white/10 rounded text-white/50"
+      className="text-muted-foreground rounded"
     >
       {isMaximized ? <Copy /> : <Square />}
     </Button>
@@ -47,7 +47,7 @@ export function WindowControls() {
       size="icon-sm"
       onClick={() => platform.window.close()}
       aria-label="Close"
-      className="hover:text-destructive dark:hover:bg-white/10 rounded text-white/50"
+      className="hover:text-destructive text-muted-foreground rounded"
     >
       <X />
     </Button>

js/desktop/src/features/attachments/attachment-lightbox.tsx

@@ -172,7 +172,7 @@ export function AttachmentLightbox({
       }}
     >
       <DialogPrimitive.Portal>
-        <DialogPrimitive.Overlay className="data-open:animate-in data-closed:animate-out data-closed:fade-out-0 data-open:fade-in-0 fixed inset-0 z-50 bg-black/90 backdrop-blur-sm duration-100" />
+        <DialogPrimitive.Overlay className="data-open:animate-in data-closed:animate-out data-closed:fade-out-0 data-open:fade-in-0 bg-scrim/90 fixed inset-0 z-50 backdrop-blur-sm duration-100" />
         <DialogPrimitive.Content
           aria-describedby={undefined}
           className="data-open:animate-in data-closed:animate-out data-closed:fade-out-0 data-open:fade-in-0 fixed inset-0 z-50 flex items-center justify-center p-16 outline-none duration-100"

js/desktop/src/features/compose/attachment-strip.tsx

@@ -4,6 +4,7 @@ import { ScrollArea, ScrollBar } from '@/components/ui/scroll-area';
 import { Skeleton } from '@/components/ui/skeleton';
 import { cn } from '@/lib/utils';
 import type { LinkPreviewEntry } from '@/hooks/use-link-metadata';
+import { domainFromUrl } from '@/lib/link-metadata';
 import {
   AttachmentLightbox,
   getAttachmentHandler,
@@ -61,7 +62,7 @@ function AttachmentThumbnail({
       tabIndex={previewable ? 0 : undefined}
       onClick={previewable && onPreview ? onPreview : undefined}
       className={cn(
-        'group relative flex h-16 w-16 shrink-0 items-center justify-center overflow-hidden rounded-lg bg-white/10',
+        'bg-muted group relative flex h-16 w-16 shrink-0 items-center justify-center overflow-hidden rounded-lg',
         previewable && 'cursor-pointer',
         isError && 'ring-1 ring-red-400/50',
       )}
@@ -74,19 +75,19 @@ function AttachmentThumbnail({
         />
       ) : (
         <div className="flex flex-col items-center gap-0.5 px-1">
-          <FileIcon className="size-5 text-white/60" />
-          <span className="max-w-full truncate text-[9px] text-white/50">
+          <FileIcon className="text-muted-foreground size-5" />
+          <span className="text-muted-foreground max-w-full truncate text-[9px]">
             {attachment.file.name}
           </span>
-          <span className="text-[9px] text-white/40">
+          <span className="text-muted-foreground text-[9px]">
             {formatFileSize(attachment.file.size)}
           </span>
         </div>
       )}
 
       {isUploading && (
-        <div className="absolute inset-0 flex items-center justify-center bg-black/50">
-          <Loader2 className="size-4 animate-spin text-white/70" />
+        <div className="bg-scrim/50 absolute inset-0 flex items-center justify-center">
+          <Loader2 className="size-4 animate-spin text-white" />
         </div>
       )}
 
@@ -96,7 +97,7 @@ function AttachmentThumbnail({
           e.stopPropagation();
           onRemove();
         }}
-        className="absolute right-0.5 top-0.5 hidden rounded-full bg-black/70 p-0.5 text-white/70 hover:text-white group-hover:block"
+        className="bg-scrim/70 absolute right-0.5 top-0.5 hidden rounded-full p-0.5 text-white/80 hover:text-white group-hover:block"
       >
         <X className="size-3" />
       </button>
@@ -107,25 +108,26 @@ function AttachmentThumbnail({
 function LinkPreviewThumbnail({ entry }: { entry: LinkPreviewEntry }) {
   if (entry.isLoading) {
     return (
-      <div className="flex h-16 w-28 shrink-0 flex-col gap-1.5 rounded-lg bg-white/10 p-2">
-        <Skeleton className="h-2 w-16 bg-white/10" />
-        <Skeleton className="h-3 w-24 bg-white/10" />
+      <div className="bg-muted flex h-16 w-28 shrink-0 flex-col gap-1.5 rounded-lg p-2">
+        <Skeleton className="h-2 w-16" />
+        <Skeleton className="h-3 w-24" />
       </div>
     );
   }
 
-  if (!entry.metadata) return null;
-
+  // Metadata fetch can fail; fall back to the bare URL so the link stays usable.
   const { metadata } = entry;
+  const domain = metadata?.domain ?? domainFromUrl(entry.url);
+  const title = metadata?.title ?? entry.url;
 
   return (
     <button
       type="button"
-      onClick={() => platform.link.openExternal(metadata.url)}
-      className="flex h-16 w-28 shrink-0 flex-col justify-center gap-1 overflow-hidden rounded-lg bg-white/10 px-2 py-1.5 text-left transition-colors hover:bg-white/15"
+      onClick={() => platform.link.openExternal(metadata?.url ?? entry.url)}
+      className="bg-muted hover:bg-accent flex h-16 w-28 shrink-0 flex-col justify-center gap-1 overflow-hidden rounded-lg px-2 py-1.5 text-left transition-colors"
     >
-      <div className="flex items-center gap-1 text-[10px] text-white/40">
-        {metadata.favicon ? (
+      <div className="text-muted-foreground flex items-center gap-1 text-[10px]">
+        {metadata?.favicon ? (
           <img
             src={metadata.favicon}
             alt=""
@@ -137,11 +139,11 @@ function LinkPreviewThumbnail({ entry }: { entry: LinkPreviewEntry }) {
         ) : (
           <Globe className="size-3" />
         )}
-        <span className="truncate">{metadata.domain}</span>
+        <span className="truncate">{domain}</span>
       </div>
-      {metadata.title && (
-        <p className="line-clamp-2 text-[11px] font-medium leading-tight text-white/80">
-          {metadata.title}
+      {title && (
+        <p className="text-foreground line-clamp-2 text-[11px] font-medium leading-tight">
+          {title}
         </p>
       )}
     </button>
@@ -195,7 +197,7 @@ export function AttachmentStrip({
               e.stopPropagation();
               onAddClick();
             }}
-            className="flex h-16 w-16 shrink-0 items-center justify-center rounded-lg border border-dashed border-white/20 text-white/40 transition-colors hover:border-white/40 hover:text-white/60"
+            className="border-border text-muted-foreground hover:border-foreground/40 hover:text-foreground flex h-16 w-16 shrink-0 items-center justify-center rounded-lg border border-dashed transition-colors"
           >
             <Plus className="size-5" />
           </button>

js/desktop/src/features/compose/compose-overlay.tsx

@@ -19,7 +19,9 @@ import { RecordingOverlay } from '@/features/compose/recording-overlay';
 import { ScreenSourcePicker } from '@/components/screen-source-picker';
 import { KeyHint } from '@/components/key-hint';
 import { TextComposeStep } from '@/features/compose/text-compose-step';
-import { ConfigureStreamStep } from '@/features/compose/configure-stream-step';
+import { TaskComposeStep } from '@/features/compose/task-compose-step';
+import { ConfigureContainerStep } from '@/features/compose/configure-container-step';
+import type { TaskProperties } from '@/api/types';
 import { apiClient } from '@/api/client';
 import { useMediaSettingsStore } from '@/stores/media-settings-store';
 import { useMediaDevicesStore } from '@/stores/media-devices-store';
@@ -27,7 +29,11 @@ import { useMediaDevices } from '@/hooks/use-media-devices';
 import { resolveEffectiveDeviceId } from '@/hooks/use-effective-device-id';
 import { useFileInput } from '@/hooks/use-file-input';
 import { createImageThumbnail } from '@/lib/image-thumbnail';
-import { MAX_ATTACHMENT_SIZE_BYTES, MAX_ATTACHMENTS } from '@/lib/constants';
+import {
+  HOLD_THRESHOLD_MS,
+  MAX_ATTACHMENT_SIZE_BYTES,
+  MAX_ATTACHMENTS,
+} from '@/lib/constants';
 import type { PendingAttachment } from '@/features/compose/attachment-strip';
 import { useSuspendPlayback } from '@/hooks/use-suspend-playback';
 import { useComposeIntentStore } from '@/stores/compose-intent-store';
@@ -40,11 +46,14 @@ export type ComposeStep =
   | 'recording'
   | 'reviewing'
   | 'typing'
+  | 'task'
   | 'configuring'
   | 'submitting';
 
 type RecordingSource = 'media' | 'screen';
 
+type PendingArtifact = { type: 'task'; properties: TaskProperties };
+
 interface ComposeOverlayProps {
   networkId: string;
   // Optional target path for reply mode. If not provided, compose creates a new stream.
@@ -52,12 +61,8 @@ interface ComposeOverlayProps {
   onActiveChange?: (active: boolean) => void;
   onStepChange?: (step: ComposeStep) => void;
   onParticleCreated?: (particleId: string) => void;
-  /** When true, composing is blocked (e.g. stream is closed). */
-  disabled?: boolean;
 }
 
-const HOLD_THRESHOLD_MS = 250;
-
 /**
  * Self-contained compose overlay. Each consumer renders its own instance
  * with props that determine the mode (new stream vs. reply).
@@ -68,7 +73,6 @@ export function ComposeOverlay({
   onActiveChange,
   onStepChange,
   onParticleCreated,
-  disabled,
 }: ComposeOverlayProps) {
   const [step, setStep] = useState<ComposeStep>('idle');
   const [error, setError] = useState<string | null>(null);
@@ -98,14 +102,14 @@ export function ComposeOverlay({
   // Latest props/state for synchronous reads in keyboard handlers.
   const stepRef = useRef(step);
   const recordStartRef = useRef(0);
-  const disabledRef = useRef(disabled);
   const quotaExhaustedRef = useRef(quotaExhausted);
   const recordingSourceRef = useRef(recordingSource);
+
+  const pendingArtifactRef = useRef<PendingArtifact | null>(null);
   useEffect(() => {
-    disabledRef.current = disabled;
     quotaExhaustedRef.current = quotaExhausted;
     recordingSourceRef.current = recordingSource;
-  }, [disabled, quotaExhausted, recordingSource]);
+  }, [quotaExhausted, recordingSource]);
 
   const setStepSync = useCallback((next: ComposeStep) => {
     stepRef.current = next;
@@ -142,6 +146,7 @@ export function ComposeOverlay({
     setReviewDurationMs(0);
     setReviewMimeType(null);
     setRecordingSource('media');
+    pendingArtifactRef.current = null;
     setAttachments((prev) => {
       revokeAttachmentThumbnails(prev);
       return [];
@@ -330,7 +335,15 @@ export function ComposeOverlay({
       if (!userId) return;
 
       let particleId: undefined | string;
-      if (textContent.trim()) {
+      const pendingArtifact = pendingArtifactRef.current;
+      if (pendingArtifact) {
+        particleId = await createParticle.mutateAsync({
+          path,
+          type: pendingArtifact.type,
+          properties: pendingArtifact.properties,
+          createdByHumanId: userId,
+        });
+      } else if (textContent.trim()) {
         particleId = await createParticle.mutateAsync({
           path,
           type: 'text',
@@ -454,14 +467,10 @@ export function ComposeOverlay({
   // --- Compose intent handlers ---
   // Single source of truth for the step transitions triggered by the user.
   // Both the keyboard handler and the intent store dispatch into these so
-  // guards (disabled, quota) and screen-vs-media branching live in one place.
+  // guards (quota) and screen-vs-media branching live in one place.
 
   const guardIdle = useCallback((): boolean => {
     if (stepRef.current !== 'idle') return false;
-    if (disabledRef.current) {
-      toast.info('This stream is closed');
-      return false;
-    }
     if (quotaExhaustedRef.current) {
       toast.info(
         'Daily message limit reached. Upgrade to Pro to keep sending.',
@@ -484,6 +493,26 @@ export function ComposeOverlay({
     setStepSync('typing');
   }, [guardIdle, setStepSync]);
 
+  const handleTaskIntent = useCallback(() => {
+    if (!guardIdle()) return;
+    setStepSync('task');
+  }, [guardIdle, setStepSync]);
+
+  // Artifact submit: capture the artifact, then reuse the standard flow —
+  // reply mode creates it under targetPath, root mode configures a stream
+  // that will hold it as its first child.
+  const handleArtifactSubmit = useCallback(
+    (artifact: PendingArtifact) => {
+      pendingArtifactRef.current = artifact;
+      if (targetPath) {
+        void onSubmitReply();
+      } else {
+        setStepSync('configuring');
+      }
+    },
+    [targetPath, onSubmitReply, setStepSync],
+  );
+
   const handleStopIntent = useCallback(() => {
     if (stepRef.current !== 'recording') return;
     if (recordingSourceRef.current === 'screen') {
@@ -537,6 +566,9 @@ export function ComposeOverlay({
         case 'text':
           handleTextIntent();
           break;
+        case 'task':
+          handleTaskIntent();
+          break;
         case 'stop':
           handleStopIntent();
           break;
@@ -552,6 +584,7 @@ export function ComposeOverlay({
   }, [
     handleRecordIntent,
     handleTextIntent,
+    handleTaskIntent,
     handleStopIntent,
     handleCancelIntent,
     handleSendIntent,
@@ -564,13 +597,24 @@ export function ComposeOverlay({
     const handleKeyDown = (e: KeyboardEvent) => {
       const currentStep = stepRef.current;
 
+      // Consume a key compose handles so it never reaches the stream's
+      // window-level navigation/action handlers. Without this, e.g. Escape
+      // while recording or reviewing would both cancel compose and exit the
+      // stream. Listening in the capture phase (see below) guarantees compose
+      // sees the key before those handlers regardless of registration order.
+      const consume = () => {
+        e.preventDefault();
+        e.stopPropagation();
+      };
+
       if (
         currentStep === 'typing' ||
+        currentStep === 'task' ||
         currentStep === 'configuring' ||
         currentStep === 'picking'
       ) {
         if (e.key === 'Escape') {
-          e.preventDefault();
+          consume();
           cancel();
         }
         return;
@@ -588,17 +632,20 @@ export function ComposeOverlay({
       switch (currentStep) {
         case 'idle': {
           if (e.key === '`' && !e.repeat) {
-            e.preventDefault();
+            consume();
             handleRecordIntent();
           } else if (e.key === 's' || e.key === 'S') {
-            e.preventDefault();
+            consume();
             if (!guardIdle()) break;
             if (!requireDesktop('Screen recording')) break;
             setRecordingSource('screen');
             setStepSync('picking');
           } else if (e.key === 't' || e.key === 'T') {
-            e.preventDefault();
+            consume();
             handleTextIntent();
+          } else if (e.key === 'd' || e.key === 'D') {
+            consume();
+            handleTaskIntent();
           }
           break;
         }
@@ -606,17 +653,17 @@ export function ComposeOverlay({
         case 'recording': {
           if (e.key === '`' && !e.repeat) {
             // Second tap stops media recording (toggle mode)
-            e.preventDefault();
+            consume();
             handleStopIntent();
           } else if (
             (e.key === 's' || e.key === 'S') &&
             recordingSourceRef.current === 'screen'
           ) {
             // S stops screen recording when main window is focused
-            e.preventDefault();
+            consume();
             handleStopIntent();
           } else if (e.key === 'q' || e.key === 'Q' || e.key === 'Escape') {
-            e.preventDefault();
+            consume();
             handleCancelIntent();
           }
           break;
@@ -624,10 +671,10 @@ export function ComposeOverlay({
 
         case 'reviewing': {
           if (e.key === 'q' || e.key === 'Q' || e.key === 'Escape') {
-            e.preventDefault();
+            consume();
             handleCancelIntent();
           } else if (e.key === 'Enter') {
-            e.preventDefault();
+            consume();
             handleSendIntent();
           }
           break;
@@ -654,10 +701,13 @@ export function ComposeOverlay({
       }
     };
 
-    window.addEventListener('keydown', handleKeyDown);
+    // Capture phase so compose can consume keys before the stream's
+    // window-level navigation/action handlers (which listen in the bubble
+    // phase) see them.
+    window.addEventListener('keydown', handleKeyDown, true);
     window.addEventListener('keyup', handleKeyUp);
     return () => {
-      window.removeEventListener('keydown', handleKeyDown);
+      window.removeEventListener('keydown', handleKeyDown, true);
       window.removeEventListener('keyup', handleKeyUp);
     };
   }, [
@@ -666,6 +716,7 @@ export function ComposeOverlay({
     guardIdle,
     handleRecordIntent,
     handleTextIntent,
+    handleTaskIntent,
     handleStopIntent,
     handleCancelIntent,
     handleSendIntent,
@@ -719,7 +770,7 @@ export function ComposeOverlay({
           />
         )}
       {step === 'recording' && recordingSource === 'screen' && (
-        <div className="absolute inset-0 z-50 flex flex-col items-center justify-center bg-black/90">
+        <div className="bg-scrim/90 absolute inset-0 z-50 flex flex-col items-center justify-center">
           <div className="absolute top-8 z-10">
             <div className="flex items-center gap-2">
               <span className="h-2.5 w-2.5 animate-pulse rounded-full bg-red-500" />
@@ -774,16 +825,25 @@ export function ComposeOverlay({
           dropZoneProps={dropZoneProps}
         />
       )}
+      {step === 'task' && (
+        <TaskComposeStep
+          networkId={networkId}
+          onCancel={cancel}
+          onSubmit={(properties) =>
+            handleArtifactSubmit({ type: 'task', properties })
+          }
+        />
+      )}
       {!targetPath && step === 'configuring' && (
-        <ConfigureStreamStep
+        <ConfigureContainerStep
           networkId={networkId}
           onCancel={cancel}
           onSubmit={handleStreamSubmit}
         />
       )}
       {step === 'submitting' && (
-        <div className="absolute inset-0 z-50 flex flex-col items-center justify-center bg-black/90">
-          <span className="animate-pulse text-sm text-white/60">
+        <div className="bg-background/95 absolute inset-0 z-50 flex flex-col items-center justify-center backdrop-blur-sm">
+          <span className="text-muted-foreground animate-pulse text-sm">
             Sending...
           </span>
         </div>

js/desktop/src/features/compose/configure-container-step.tsx

@@ -10,17 +10,20 @@ import { Label } from '@/components/ui/label';
 import { Checkbox } from '@/components/ui/checkbox';
 import { ScrollArea } from '@/components/ui/scroll-area';
 
-interface ConfigureStreamStepProps {
+interface ConfigureContainerStepProps {
+  /** Drives labels and hints; the form is identical for both kinds. */
+  kind?: 'stream' | 'folder';
   networkId: string | null;
   onCancel: () => void;
-  onSubmit: (streamName: string, visibleTo: string[]) => void;
+  onSubmit: (name: string, visibleTo: string[]) => void;
 }
 
-export function ConfigureStreamStep({
+export function ConfigureContainerStep({
+  kind = 'stream',
   networkId,
   onCancel,
   onSubmit,
-}: ConfigureStreamStepProps) {
+}: ConfigureContainerStepProps) {
   const { data: networks } = useNetworks();
   const network = networks?.find((n) => n.id === networkId);
 
@@ -74,14 +77,15 @@ export function ConfigureStreamStep({
 
   return (
     <div
-      className="absolute inset-0 z-50 flex flex-col bg-black/90 pt-16"
+      className="bg-background/95 absolute inset-0 z-50 flex flex-col pt-16 backdrop-blur-sm"
       onKeyDown={handleKeyDown}
       tabIndex={-1}
     >
       <div className="mx-auto w-full max-w-sm space-y-4 px-6">
-        {/* Stream name */}
         <div>
-          <Label className="mb-1 text-xs text-white/50">Stream name</Label>
+          <Label className="text-muted-foreground mb-1 text-xs">
+            {kind === 'folder' ? 'Folder name' : 'Stream name'}
+          </Label>
           <Input
             type="text"
             autoFocus
@@ -90,21 +94,22 @@ export function ConfigureStreamStep({
               setName(e.target.value);
             }}
             placeholder="Give it a name..."
-            className="border-white/10 bg-white/5 text-white placeholder-white/30 focus-visible:border-white/30 focus-visible:ring-0"
           />
         </div>
 
         {/* Visibility */}
         <div>
-          <Label className="mb-1 text-xs text-white/50">Visible to</Label>
-          <div className="rounded-md border border-white/10">
+          <Label className="text-muted-foreground mb-1 text-xs">
+            Visible to
+          </Label>
+          <div className="border-border rounded-md border">
             {/* Everyone in network */}
             <div
               role="button"
               onClick={() => setEveryone((prev) => !prev)}
               className={cn(
                 'flex w-full cursor-pointer items-center gap-2.5 px-3 py-2 text-left text-sm transition-colors',
-                'text-white/70 hover:bg-white/5',
+                'hover:bg-accent',
               )}
             >
               <Checkbox
@@ -133,7 +138,7 @@ export function ConfigureStreamStep({
                         onClick={() => toggleMember(member.id)}
                         className={cn(
                           'flex w-full cursor-pointer items-center gap-2.5 rounded px-3 py-1.5 text-left text-sm transition-colors',
-                          'text-white/70 hover:bg-white/5',
+                          'hover:bg-accent',
                         )}
                       >
                         <Checkbox
@@ -141,7 +146,7 @@ export function ConfigureStreamStep({
                           tabIndex={-1}
                           className="pointer-events-none"
                         />
-                        <span className="flex h-6 w-6 items-center justify-center rounded-full bg-white/10 text-[10px] font-medium">
+                        <span className="bg-muted flex h-6 w-6 items-center justify-center rounded-full text-[10px] font-medium">
                           {initials}
                         </span>
                         <span className="flex-1 truncate">
@@ -158,14 +163,14 @@ export function ConfigureStreamStep({
       </div>
 
       {/* Keyboard hints */}
-      <div className="absolute bottom-8 left-0 right-0 flex items-center justify-center gap-4 text-sm text-white/50">
+      <div className="text-muted-foreground absolute bottom-8 left-0 right-0 flex items-center justify-center gap-4 text-sm">
         <KeyHint keys="Esc" onClick={onCancel} title="Cancel (or press Esc)">
           cancel
         </KeyHint>
         <KeyHint
           keys={`${metaKey}+Enter`}
           onClick={handleSubmit}
-          title={`Create stream (or press ${metaKey}+Enter)`}
+          title={`Create ${kind} (or press ${metaKey}+Enter)`}
         >
           create
         </KeyHint>

js/desktop/src/features/compose/markdown-editor.css

@@ -1,13 +1,14 @@
-/* Theme Milkdown Crepe to blend into the app's translucent "glass" surfaces.
- * Crepe's frame-dark theme is a grayscale palette driven by --crepe-* custom
- * properties; we override those to white-on-transparent with a blue accent so
- * the editor (and the read-only display, which uses the same engine) sits on
+/* Theme Milkdown Crepe to the app's design tokens so it follows light/dark.
+ * Crepe's theme is a palette driven by --crepe-* custom properties; we map
+ * those onto our CSS variables (globals.css) so the editor (and the read-only
+ * display, which uses the same engine) inherits the active theme and sits on
  * top of the existing card instead of painting its own opaque background.
  *
  * The floating menus (slash menu, selection toolbar, link tooltip) are portaled
  * to <body>, OUTSIDE .milkdown — so the variables must be declared on those
  * selectors too, otherwise they fall back to transparent and the menu is
- * unreadable over the content behind it. */
+ * unreadable over the content behind it. Our tokens resolve against the
+ * :root/.dark cascade on <html>, so the portaled menus stay themed too. */
 .llink-crepe .milkdown,
 .milkdown-slash-menu,
 .milkdown-toolbar,
@@ -15,24 +16,30 @@
 .milkdown-link-preview,
 .milkdown-block-handle {
   --crepe-color-background: transparent;
-  --crepe-color-on-background: rgb(255 255 255 / 0.92);
-  /* Surface backs code blocks, tables, and the floating menus — keep it
-   * (near-)opaque so menus read clearly over content. */
-  --crepe-color-surface: rgb(24 24 28 / 0.96);
-  --crepe-color-surface-low: rgb(42 42 50 / 0.96);
-  --crepe-color-on-surface: #ffffff;
-  --crepe-color-on-surface-variant: rgb(255 255 255 / 0.65);
-  --crepe-color-outline: rgb(255 255 255 / 0.2);
-  --crepe-color-primary: #60a5fa;
-  --crepe-color-secondary: rgb(96 165 250 / 0.25);
-  --crepe-color-on-secondary: #ffffff;
-  --crepe-color-inverse: #ffffff;
-  --crepe-color-on-inverse: #0b0b0b;
-  --crepe-color-inline-code: #fca5a5;
-  --crepe-color-inline-area: rgb(255 255 255 / 0.1);
-  --crepe-color-error: #f87171;
-  --crepe-color-hover: rgb(255 255 255 / 0.08);
-  --crepe-color-selected: rgb(96 165 250 / 0.25);
+  --crepe-color-on-background: var(--card-foreground);
+  /* Surface backs code blocks, tables, and the floating menus — use an opaque
+   * themed surface so menus read clearly over content. */
+  --crepe-color-surface: var(--popover);
+  --crepe-color-surface-low: var(--muted);
+  --crepe-color-on-surface: var(--popover-foreground);
+  --crepe-color-on-surface-variant: var(--muted-foreground);
+  --crepe-color-outline: var(--border);
+  --crepe-color-primary: var(--primary);
+  --crepe-color-secondary: color-mix(in oklch, var(--primary) 22%, transparent);
+  --crepe-color-on-secondary: var(--foreground);
+  --crepe-color-inverse: var(--foreground);
+  --crepe-color-on-inverse: var(--background);
+  --crepe-color-inline-code: var(--primary);
+  --crepe-color-inline-area: var(--muted);
+  --crepe-color-error: var(--destructive);
+  --crepe-color-hover: var(--accent);
+  --crepe-color-selected: color-mix(in oklch, var(--primary) 22%, transparent);
+  /* frame-dark ships white "glow" shadows that vanish on light surfaces;
+   * use a conventional dark drop shadow so floating menus lift in both themes. */
+  --crepe-shadow-1:
+    0px 1px 2px 0px rgb(0 0 0 / 0.12), 0px 1px 3px 1px rgb(0 0 0 / 0.08);
+  --crepe-shadow-2:
+    0px 1px 2px 0px rgb(0 0 0 / 0.16), 0px 2px 6px 2px rgb(0 0 0 / 0.12);
   /* Use the application font, not Crepe's bundled Noto Sans / Noto Serif. */
   --crepe-font-default: inherit;
   --crepe-font-title: inherit;
@@ -57,6 +64,66 @@
 .llink-crepe .milkdown .ProseMirror {
   padding: 0;
   outline: none;
+  caret-color: var(--foreground);
+}
+
+/* Crepe's default heading scale (42px h1) is sized for a document editor;
+ * tighten it to message-card proportions. Applies to compose and read-only
+ * alike so the editing view matches the posted card. */
+.llink-crepe .milkdown .ProseMirror h1 {
+  font-size: 1.875rem;
+  line-height: 2.375rem;
+  font-weight: 600;
+  margin-top: 24px;
+}
+
+.llink-crepe .milkdown .ProseMirror h2 {
+  font-size: 1.5rem;
+  line-height: 2rem;
+  font-weight: 600;
+  margin-top: 20px;
+}
+
+.llink-crepe .milkdown .ProseMirror h3 {
+  font-size: 1.25rem;
+  line-height: 1.75rem;
+  font-weight: 600;
+  margin-top: 16px;
+}
+
+.llink-crepe .milkdown .ProseMirror h4 {
+  font-size: 1.125rem;
+  line-height: 1.625rem;
+  font-weight: 600;
+  margin-top: 12px;
+}
+
+.llink-crepe .milkdown .ProseMirror h5 {
+  font-size: 1rem;
+  line-height: 1.5rem;
+  font-weight: 600;
+  margin-top: 12px;
+}
+
+.llink-crepe .milkdown .ProseMirror h6 {
+  font-size: 0.875rem;
+  line-height: 1.375rem;
+  font-weight: 700;
+  margin-top: 12px;
+  color: var(--muted-foreground);
+}
+
+.llink-crepe .milkdown .ProseMirror > :first-child {
+  margin-top: 0;
+}
+
+/* Image *links* render through the base commonmark schema (the ImageBlock
+ * feature is off — see markdown-editor.tsx). Keep them within the content
+ * column and softly rounded. */
+.llink-crepe .milkdown .ProseMirror img {
+  max-width: 100%;
+  max-height: 420px;
+  border-radius: 8px;
 }
 
 /* Editing context: fill the compose card and scroll internally so a long
@@ -71,8 +138,10 @@
 }
 
 /* Pad the content (not the card) so the slash menu — which Crepe appends to
- * .milkdown — can use the full card width/height before clipping. */
+ * .milkdown — can use the full card width/height before clipping. The shared
+ * layout variables (globals.css) keep the editor's content column identical
+ * to the posted card's, and the gutter fits the block drag handle. */
 .llink-crepe--fill .milkdown .ProseMirror {
   min-height: 100%;
-  padding: 1.25rem;
+  padding: var(--message-card-padding) var(--message-editor-gutter);
 }

js/desktop/src/features/compose/markdown-editor.tsx

@@ -1,9 +1,12 @@
 import { useEffect, useRef } from 'react';
 import { Crepe } from '@milkdown/crepe';
+import { editorViewCtx, editorViewOptionsCtx } from '@milkdown/kit/core';
+import { Selection } from '@milkdown/kit/prose/state';
 import '@milkdown/crepe/theme/common/style.css';
 import '@milkdown/crepe/theme/frame-dark.css';
 import './markdown-editor.css';
 import { cn } from '@/lib/utils';
+import { transferFiles } from '@/lib/data-transfer';
 
 interface MarkdownEditorProps {
   /** Initial markdown. The editor owns its content after mount; edits flow out
@@ -55,6 +58,11 @@ export function MarkdownEditor({
         [Crepe.Feature.BlockEdit]: !readOnly,
         [Crepe.Feature.Toolbar]: !readOnly,
         [Crepe.Feature.Placeholder]: !readOnly,
+        // Off on purpose: file uploads aren't supported, so this feature's
+        // paste/drop handler would only strand an "upload in progress" node in
+        // the editor. Image *links* still render through the base commonmark
+        // schema, and pasted image files are routed to the compose attachment
+        // strip (see use-file-input).
         [Crepe.Feature.ImageBlock]: false,
         [Crepe.Feature.Latex]: false,
         [Crepe.Feature.TopBar]: false,
@@ -73,6 +81,21 @@ export function MarkdownEditor({
           onChangeRef.current?.(markdown);
         });
       });
+
+      // Decline dropped files: they belong in the compose attachment strip
+      // (the drop zone still receives them), not inlined into the document.
+      // Without this the editor parses the drag's HTML into an image node with
+      // an ephemeral blob:/localhost src, which then leaks into the markdown.
+      crepe.editor.config((ctx) => {
+        ctx.update(editorViewOptionsCtx, (prev) => ({
+          ...prev,
+          handleDrop: (view, event, slice, moved) => {
+            const data = event.dataTransfer;
+            if (data && transferFiles(data).length > 0) return true;
+            return prev.handleDrop?.(view, event, slice, moved) ?? false;
+          },
+        }));
+      });
     }
 
     crepe.create().then(() => {
@@ -82,7 +105,18 @@ export function MarkdownEditor({
       }
       created = crepe;
       if (autoFocus && !readOnly) {
-        root.querySelector<HTMLElement>('.ProseMirror')?.focus();
+        // Place the caret at the end of the document — the editor often mounts
+        // mid-typing (immersive → card flip), where start-of-doc would strand
+        // the user. Selection-only transactions don't echo markdownUpdated.
+        crepe.editor.action((ctx) => {
+          const view = ctx.get(editorViewCtx);
+          view.dispatch(
+            view.state.tr
+              .setSelection(Selection.atEnd(view.state.doc))
+              .scrollIntoView(),
+          );
+          view.focus();
+        });
       }
     });
 
@@ -97,7 +131,11 @@ export function MarkdownEditor({
   return (
     <div
       ref={rootRef}
-      className={cn('llink-crepe', !readOnly && 'llink-crepe--fill', className)}
+      className={cn(
+        'llink-crepe',
+        !readOnly && 'llink-crepe--fill scrollbar-card',
+        className,
+      )}
     />
   );
 }

js/desktop/src/features/compose/recording-overlay.tsx

@@ -1,4 +1,5 @@
 import { useEffect, useRef, useState } from 'react';
+import { toast } from 'sonner';
 import { Paperclip } from 'lucide-react';
 import type { RecordingMode } from '@/stores/media-settings-store';
 import { CenteredWaveform } from '@/components/audio/centered-waveform';
@@ -7,6 +8,7 @@ import { useObjectUrl } from '@/hooks/use-object-url';
 import { AttachmentStrip } from '@/features/compose/attachment-strip';
 import type { PendingAttachment } from '@/features/compose/attachment-strip';
 import { cn } from '@/lib/utils';
+import { RECORDING_MAX_DURATION_SECONDS } from '@/lib/constants';
 import { Button } from '@/components/ui/button';
 import { KeyHint } from '@/components/key-hint';
 import { useComposeIntentStore } from '@/stores/compose-intent-store';
@@ -34,16 +36,41 @@ interface RecordingOverlayProps {
   objectFit?: 'cover' | 'contain';
 }
 
-function RecordingTimer() {
+function useRecordingCountdown(active: boolean) {
   const [elapsed, setElapsed] = useState(0);
 
   useEffect(() => {
-    const interval = setInterval(() => {
-      setElapsed((prev) => prev + 1);
-    }, 1000);
-    return () => clearInterval(interval);
-  }, []);
+    if (!active) return;
 
+    let toastSent = false;
+    const start = Date.now();
+    const interval = setInterval(() => {
+      const seconds = Math.floor((Date.now() - start) / 1000);
+      setElapsed(seconds);
+
+      if (seconds >= RECORDING_MAX_DURATION_SECONDS && !toastSent) {
+        toast.warning(
+          'That is a long recording, cancel and re-record with your distilled thoughts',
+        );
+        toastSent = true;
+      }
+    }, 1000);
+    return () => {
+      clearInterval(interval);
+      setElapsed(0);
+    };
+  }, [active]);
+
+  return { elapsed, isWarning: elapsed >= RECORDING_MAX_DURATION_SECONDS };
+}
+
+function RecordingTimer({
+  elapsed,
+  isWarning,
+}: {
+  elapsed: number;
+  isWarning: boolean;
+}) {
   const minutes = Math.floor(elapsed / 60);
   const seconds = elapsed % 60;
   const display = `${minutes}:${seconds.toString().padStart(2, '0')}`;
@@ -51,7 +78,14 @@ function RecordingTimer() {
   return (
     <div className="flex items-center gap-2">
       <span className="h-2.5 w-2.5 animate-pulse rounded-full bg-red-500" />
-      <span className="font-mono text-sm text-white/80">{display}</span>
+      <span
+        className={cn(
+          'font-mono text-sm text-white/80',
+          isWarning && 'text-red-400',
+        )}
+      >
+        {display}
+      </span>
     </div>
   );
 }
@@ -137,14 +171,31 @@ export function RecordingOverlay({
   const isLoading = isRecording && !mediaStream;
   const requestIntent = useComposeIntentStore((s) => s.request);
 
+  const { elapsed, isWarning } = useRecordingCountdown(
+    isRecording && !isLoading,
+  );
+
   return (
     <div
       className={cn(
-        'absolute inset-0 z-50 flex flex-col items-center justify-center bg-black/90',
+        'bg-scrim/90 absolute inset-0 z-50 flex flex-col items-center justify-center',
         isReviewing && isDragging && 'ring-2 ring-inset ring-white/30',
+        isRecording && isWarning && 'record-warning-glow',
       )}
       {...(isReviewing ? dropZoneProps : {})}
     >
+      {/* Top progress bar: fills over the recording duration, red in warning */}
+      {isRecording && !isLoading && (
+        <div className="absolute inset-x-0 top-0 z-20 h-1 bg-white/10">
+          <div
+            className={cn(
+              'h-full w-full origin-left record-progress',
+              isWarning ? 'bg-red-500' : 'bg-white/80',
+            )}
+            style={{ animationDuration: `${RECORDING_MAX_DURATION_SECONDS}s` }}
+          />
+        </div>
+      )}
       {/* Loading state */}
       {isLoading && (
         <div className="z-10 flex flex-col items-center gap-2">
@@ -179,13 +230,13 @@ export function RecordingOverlay({
 
       {/* Bottom gradient scrim for keyboard hint readability */}
       {(isRecording || isReviewing) && !isLoading && (
-        <div className="pointer-events-none absolute inset-x-0 bottom-0 z-[5] h-1/4 bg-gradient-to-t from-black/60 to-transparent" />
+        <div className="from-scrim/60 pointer-events-none absolute inset-x-0 bottom-0 z-[5] h-1/4 bg-gradient-to-t to-transparent" />
       )}
 
       {/* Top center: recording indicator */}
       <div className="absolute top-8 z-10">
         {isRecording && !isLoading ? (
-          <RecordingTimer />
+          <RecordingTimer elapsed={elapsed} isWarning={isWarning} />
         ) : isReviewing ? (
           <div className="flex items-center gap-2">
             <span className="text-sm text-white/80">Review recording</span>

js/desktop/src/features/compose/task-compose-step.tsx

@@ -0,0 +1,126 @@
+import { useCallback, useState } from 'react';
+import type { TaskProperties } from '@/api/types';
+import { useNetwork } from '@/hooks/use-networks';
+import { metaKey } from '@/lib/platform';
+import { Input } from '@/components/ui/input';
+import { Label } from '@/components/ui/label';
+import { Textarea } from '@/components/ui/textarea';
+import {
+  Select,
+  SelectContent,
+  SelectItem,
+  SelectTrigger,
+  SelectValue,
+} from '@/components/ui/select';
+import { KeyHint } from '@/components/key-hint';
+
+const UNASSIGNED = 'unassigned';
+
+interface TaskComposeStepProps {
+  networkId: string;
+  onCancel: () => void;
+  onSubmit: (properties: TaskProperties) => void;
+}
+
+/**
+ * Minimal task creation form. Checklist items are added after creation in
+ * the always-editable task view, keeping this step a quick capture.
+ */
+export function TaskComposeStep({
+  networkId,
+  onCancel,
+  onSubmit,
+}: TaskComposeStepProps) {
+  const network = useNetwork(networkId);
+  const [title, setTitle] = useState('');
+  const [notes, setNotes] = useState('');
+  const [assignedTo, setAssignedTo] = useState<string>(UNASSIGNED);
+
+  const handleSubmit = useCallback(() => {
+    const trimmed = title.trim();
+    if (!trimmed) return;
+    onSubmit({
+      title: trimmed,
+      ...(notes.trim() && { notes: notes.trim() }),
+      ...(assignedTo !== UNASSIGNED && { assigned_to: assignedTo }),
+      checklist: [],
+      done: false,
+    });
+  }, [title, notes, assignedTo, onSubmit]);
+
+  const handleKeyDown = useCallback(
+    (e: React.KeyboardEvent) => {
+      if (e.key === 'Escape') {
+        e.preventDefault();
+        onCancel();
+      } else if (e.key === 'Enter' && (e.metaKey || e.ctrlKey)) {
+        e.preventDefault();
+        handleSubmit();
+      }
+    },
+    [onCancel, handleSubmit],
+  );
+
+  return (
+    <div
+      className="bg-background/95 absolute inset-0 z-50 flex flex-col pt-16 backdrop-blur-sm"
+      onKeyDown={handleKeyDown}
+      tabIndex={-1}
+    >
+      <div className="mx-auto w-full max-w-sm space-y-4 px-6">
+        <div>
+          <Label className="text-muted-foreground mb-1 text-xs">Task</Label>
+          <Input
+            type="text"
+            autoFocus
+            value={title}
+            onChange={(e) => setTitle(e.target.value)}
+            placeholder="What needs to get done?"
+          />
+        </div>
+
+        <div>
+          <Label className="text-muted-foreground mb-1 text-xs">Notes</Label>
+          <Textarea
+            value={notes}
+            onChange={(e) => setNotes(e.target.value)}
+            placeholder="Optional details…"
+            className="min-h-20"
+          />
+        </div>
+
+        <div>
+          <Label className="text-muted-foreground mb-1 text-xs">
+            Assign to
+          </Label>
+          <Select value={assignedTo} onValueChange={setAssignedTo}>
+            <SelectTrigger className="w-full">
+              <SelectValue placeholder="Unassigned" />
+            </SelectTrigger>
+            <SelectContent>
+              <SelectItem value={UNASSIGNED}>Unassigned</SelectItem>
+              {network?.humans?.map((human) => (
+                <SelectItem key={human.id} value={human.id}>
+                  {human.email_prefix}
+                </SelectItem>
+              ))}
+            </SelectContent>
+          </Select>
+        </div>
+      </div>
+
+      <div className="text-muted-foreground absolute bottom-8 left-0 right-0 flex items-center justify-center gap-4 text-sm">
+        <KeyHint keys="Esc" onClick={onCancel} title="Cancel (or press Esc)">
+          cancel
+        </KeyHint>
+        <KeyHint
+          keys={`${metaKey}+Enter`}
+          onClick={handleSubmit}
+          title={`Create task (or press ${metaKey}+Enter)`}
+        >
+          create
+        </KeyHint>
+      </div>
+    </div>
+  );
+}

js/desktop/src/features/compose/text-editor.tsx

@@ -1,6 +1,8 @@
 import { useEffect, useRef, useCallback, useState } from 'react';
 import { Paperclip } from 'lucide-react';
 import { cn } from '@/lib/utils';
+import { getImmersiveTextStyle } from '@/lib/immersive-text';
+import { hasMarkdownFormatting } from '@/lib/markdown';
 import { metaKey } from '@/lib/platform';
 import { useAllLinkMetadata } from '@/hooks/use-link-metadata';
 import { AttachmentStrip } from '@/features/compose/attachment-strip';
@@ -35,12 +37,6 @@ interface TextEditorProps {
 
 const IMMERSIVE_CHAR_LIMIT = 120;
 
-function getImmersiveTextStyle(length: number) {
-  if (length < 70) return { size: 'text-5xl', weight: 'font-semibold' };
-  if (length < 130) return { size: 'text-3xl', weight: 'font-semibold' };
-  return { size: 'text-2xl', weight: 'font-normal' };
-}
-
 export function TextEditor({
   textContent,
   onTextChange,
@@ -50,7 +46,9 @@ export function TextEditor({
   attachmentProps,
 }: TextEditorProps) {
   const textareaRef = useRef<HTMLTextAreaElement>(null);
-  const [forceCardMode, setForceCardMode] = useState(false);
+  // Card mode latches: once the message needs the full editor, snapping back
+  // to immersive mid-edit would be jarring, so it stays for the session.
+  const [carded, setCarded] = useState(false);
 
   const [debouncedText, setDebouncedText] = useState(textContent);
   useEffect(() => {
@@ -61,13 +59,16 @@ export function TextEditor({
 
   const attachmentCount = attachmentProps?.attachments.length ?? 0;
   const hasEnrichments = attachmentCount > 0 || linkPreviews.length > 0;
-  const immersive =
-    textContent.length < IMMERSIVE_CHAR_LIMIT &&
-    !hasEnrichments &&
-    !forceCardMode;
+  const shouldCard =
+    !carded &&
+    (textContent.length >= IMMERSIVE_CHAR_LIMIT ||
+      hasEnrichments ||
+      hasMarkdownFormatting(textContent));
+  if (shouldCard) setCarded(true);
+  const immersive = !carded;
 
-  // Keep the immersive textarea focused with the caret at the end when we
-  // (re)enter it. The card-mode editor manages its own focus.
+  // Keep the immersive textarea focused with the caret at the end on mount.
+  // The card-mode editor manages its own focus.
   useEffect(() => {
     if (!immersive) return;
     const t = setTimeout(() => {
@@ -95,7 +96,7 @@ export function TextEditor({
       } else if (e.key === 'm' && (e.metaKey || e.ctrlKey)) {
         e.preventDefault();
         e.stopPropagation();
-        setForceCardMode(true);
+        setCarded(true);
       }
     },
     [onCancel, onSubmit, textContent],
@@ -111,7 +112,7 @@ export function TextEditor({
   );
 
   const keyboardHints = (
-    <div className="absolute bottom-4 flex items-center gap-4 text-sm text-white/50">
+    <div className="text-muted-foreground absolute bottom-4 flex items-center gap-4 text-sm">
       <KeyHint keys="Esc" onClick={onCancel} title="Cancel (or press Esc)">
         cancel
       </KeyHint>
@@ -127,7 +128,7 @@ export function TextEditor({
       {immersive && (
         <KeyHint
           keys={`${metaKey}+M`}
-          onClick={() => setForceCardMode(true)}
+          onClick={() => setCarded(true)}
           title={`Switch to markdown editor (or press ${metaKey}+M)`}
         >
           markdown
@@ -160,8 +161,8 @@ export function TextEditor({
     return (
       <div
         className={cn(
-          'absolute inset-0 z-50 flex items-center justify-center bg-black/90',
-          isDragging && 'ring-2 ring-inset ring-white/30',
+          'bg-background/95 absolute inset-0 z-50 flex items-center justify-center backdrop-blur-sm',
+          isDragging && 'ring-primary/40 ring-2 ring-inset',
         )}
         {...dropZoneProps}
       >
@@ -173,7 +174,7 @@ export function TextEditor({
             onKeyDown={handleKeyDown}
             placeholder="Type a message..."
             className={cn(
-              'w-full resize-none border-none bg-transparent p-8 text-center text-white placeholder-white/40 outline-none',
+              'text-foreground placeholder-muted-foreground w-full resize-none border-none bg-transparent p-8 text-center outline-none',
               style.size,
               style.weight,
             )}
@@ -188,13 +189,13 @@ export function TextEditor({
   return (
     <div
       className={cn(
-        'absolute inset-0 z-50 flex items-center justify-center bg-black/90',
-        isDragging && 'ring-2 ring-inset ring-white/30',
+        'bg-background/95 absolute inset-0 z-50 flex items-center justify-center backdrop-blur-sm',
+        isDragging && 'ring-primary/40 ring-2 ring-inset',
       )}
       {...dropZoneProps}
       onKeyDownCapture={handleKeyDown}
     >
-      <div className="mx-8 flex h-[calc(100%-8rem)] w-full min-w-0 flex-col overflow-hidden rounded border border-white/10 bg-white/5 backdrop-blur-xl">
+      <div className="bg-card text-card-foreground border-border animate-in fade-in zoom-in-95 mx-8 flex h-[calc(100%-8rem)] w-full min-w-0 max-w-[calc(var(--message-content-width)_+_var(--message-editor-gutter)*2)] flex-col overflow-hidden rounded border duration-200">
         {/* No padding here: the editor's own scroll box hosts the slash menu,
             so we pad inside the editor (ProseMirror) instead. That keeps the
             menu's clipping bounds the full card rather than the inset box. */}
@@ -207,7 +208,7 @@ export function TextEditor({
         </div>
 
         {hasEnrichments && strip && (
-          <div className="shrink-0 border-t border-white/10 px-5 py-3">
+          <div className="border-border shrink-0 border-t px-5 py-3">
             {strip}
           </div>
         )}

js/desktop/src/features/layout.tsx

@@ -16,30 +16,12 @@ import { Avatar, AvatarFallback } from '@/components/ui/avatar';
 import { useNetworks } from '@/hooks/use-networks';
 import { particlePath } from '@/lib/particle-path';
 import { useParticle } from '@/hooks/use-particle';
-import type { Particle } from '@/api/types';
+import { getParticleDisplayName } from '@/lib/particle-display';
 import { PropsWithChildren, useCallback } from 'react';
 import { useDockBadge } from '@/hooks/use-dock-badge';
 import { toast } from 'sonner';
 import { RouteErrorBoundary } from '@/components/app-error-boundary';
 
-function getParticleDisplayName(particle: Particle): string {
-  switch (particle.type) {
-    case 'stream':
-    case 'folder':
-      return particle.properties.name;
-    case 'quest':
-      return particle.properties.title;
-    case 'paper':
-      return particle.properties.title;
-    case 'file':
-      return particle.properties.filename;
-    case 'text':
-      return particle.properties.content.slice(0, 30);
-    case 'media':
-      return particle.type;
-  }
-}
-
 function NetworkBreadcrumbContent({ networkId }: { networkId: string }) {
   const { data: networks } = useNetworks();
   const network = networks?.find((n) => n.id === networkId);

js/desktop/src/features/network-root.tsx

@@ -1,126 +1,15 @@
-import { useCallback, useState } from 'react';
-import { useNavigate, useParams, useSearchParams } from 'react-router-dom';
-import { CircleDot, CircleCheckBig } from 'lucide-react';
+import { useParams } from 'react-router-dom';
 import { particlePath } from '@/lib/particle-path';
-import { ParticleListView } from '@/features/particles/particle-list-view';
-import { VideoAudioToggle } from '@/components/video-audio-toggle';
-import { KeyHint } from '@/components/key-hint';
-import { ComposeOverlay } from './compose/compose-overlay';
-import { useComposeIntentStore } from '@/stores/compose-intent-store';
-import { ComposeQuotaIndicator } from './compose/compose-quota-indicator';
-import { Tabs, TabsList, TabsTrigger } from '@/components/ui/tabs';
-import { useStreamParticles } from '@/hooks/use-stream-particles';
-import { useStreamKeyboardNav } from '@/hooks/use-stream-keyboard-nav';
+import { ContainerView } from '@/features/particles/container-view';
 
 /**
- * Route-level component for /:networkId (index).
- * Shows root-level particles for the selected network.
+ * Route-level component for /:networkId (index). The network root behaves
+ * like a folder: a container of streams, folders, and loose particles.
  */
 export default function NetworkRoot() {
   const { networkId } = useParams();
   if (!networkId)
     throw new Error('NetworkRoot requires a :networkId route param');
-  const navigate = useNavigate();
-  const path = particlePath(networkId, []);
 
-  const [composeActive, setComposeActive] = useState(false);
-  const [searchParams, setSearchParams] = useSearchParams();
-  const statusTab: 'open' | 'closed' =
-    searchParams.get('status') === 'closed' ? 'closed' : 'open';
-  const setStatusTab = (next: 'open' | 'closed') => {
-    setSearchParams(
-      (prev) => {
-        const params = new URLSearchParams(prev);
-        params.set('status', next);
-        return params;
-      },
-      { replace: true },
-    );
-  };
-
-  const { streams, isLoading, canLoadMore, loadMore } = useStreamParticles(
-    path,
-    {
-      status: statusTab,
-    },
-  );
-
-  const { selectedIndex } = useStreamKeyboardNav({
-    streams,
-    enabled: !composeActive,
-    onNavigate: useCallback(
-      (streamId: string) => navigate(`/${networkId}/${streamId}`),
-      [navigate, networkId],
-    ),
-  });
-
-  return (
-    <div className="relative flex min-h-0 flex-1 flex-col">
-      <div className="flex shrink-0 items-center p-1 border-b">
-        <Tabs
-          value={statusTab}
-          onValueChange={(v) =>
-            setStatusTab(v === 'closed' ? 'closed' : 'open')
-          }
-        >
-          <TabsList>
-            <TabsTrigger value="open">
-              <CircleDot className="size-3 text-green-500" /> Open
-            </TabsTrigger>
-            <TabsTrigger value="closed">
-              <CircleCheckBig className="size-3" /> Closed
-            </TabsTrigger>
-          </TabsList>
-        </Tabs>
-      </div>
-
-      <div className="min-h-0 flex-1 overflow-y-auto overscroll-contain pb-14 py-2">
-        <ParticleListView
-          streams={streams}
-          networkId={networkId}
-          isLoading={isLoading}
-          selectedIndex={selectedIndex}
-          canLoadMore={canLoadMore}
-          onLoadMore={loadMore}
-        />
-      </div>
-
-      <ComposeOverlay networkId={networkId} onActiveChange={setComposeActive} />
-      {!composeActive && (
-        <div className="pointer-events-none absolute inset-x-0 bottom-16 z-20 flex justify-center px-3">
-          <ComposeQuotaIndicator networkId={networkId} />
-        </div>
-      )}
-      <div className="pointer-events-none absolute inset-x-0 bottom-0 z-20 flex justify-center p-3">
-        <div className="pointer-events-auto">
-          <NetworkRootControls />
-        </div>
-      </div>
-    </div>
-  );
-}
-
-function NetworkRootControls() {
-  const requestIntent = useComposeIntentStore((s) => s.request);
-  return (
-    <div className="flex items-center gap-4 text-sm text-white/50">
-      <KeyHint keys={['↑↓', 'Enter']}>navigate</KeyHint>
-      <KeyHint keys="1–9">jump</KeyHint>
-      <VideoAudioToggle />
-      <KeyHint
-        keys="Hold `"
-        onClick={() => requestIntent('record')}
-        title="Start recording (or hold `)"
-      >
-        to start
-      </KeyHint>
-      <KeyHint
-        keys="T"
-        onClick={() => requestIntent('text')}
-        title="Compose text (or press T)"
-      >
-        text
-      </KeyHint>
-    </div>
-  );
+  return <ContainerView path={particlePath(networkId, [])} />;
 }

js/desktop/src/features/onboarding/hold-step.tsx

@@ -0,0 +1,52 @@
+import { useEffect } from 'react';
+import { Check } from 'lucide-react';
+import { OnboardingKeyboard } from './onboarding-keyboard';
+import { OnboardingStep, SUCCESS_DWELL_MS } from './onboarding-step';
+import { useHoldGesture } from './use-hold-gesture';
+
+/**
+ * Visible hold duration for the lesson. Deliberately longer than the real
+ * HOLD_THRESHOLD_MS (which is imperceptible) so the gesture is teachable.
+ */
+const ONBOARDING_HOLD_MS = 600;
+
+export function HoldStep({ onAdvance }: { onAdvance: () => void }) {
+  const { state, progress } = useHoldGesture({
+    targetKey: '`',
+    targetCode: 'Backquote',
+    holdMs: ONBOARDING_HOLD_MS,
+  });
+  const done = state === 'success';
+
+  useEffect(() => {
+    if (!done) return;
+    const t = setTimeout(onAdvance, SUCCESS_DWELL_MS);
+    return () => clearTimeout(t);
+  }, [done, onAdvance]);
+
+  return (
+    <OnboardingStep
+      title={done ? 'That is push-to-talk' : 'Hold to record'}
+      subtitle={
+        done
+          ? 'Hold ` whenever you want to speak, release when you are done.'
+          : 'Press and hold the ` key, like a walkie-talkie.'
+      }
+      status={
+        done ? (
+          <span className="inline-flex items-center gap-1.5 text-emerald-600 dark:text-emerald-300">
+            <Check className="size-4" /> Nice.
+          </span>
+        ) : state === 'holding' ? (
+          'Keep holding…'
+        ) : null
+      }
+    >
+      <OnboardingKeyboard
+        highlightKey="`"
+        state={done ? 'success' : state === 'holding' ? 'active' : 'idle'}
+        progress={progress}
+      />
+    </OnboardingStep>
+  );
+}

js/desktop/src/features/onboarding/onboarding-keyboard.tsx

@@ -0,0 +1,79 @@
+import { cn } from '@/lib/utils';
+
+type KeyState = 'idle' | 'active' | 'success';
+
+interface OnboardingKeyboardProps {
+  /** The key to emphasise. Defaults to the record key. */
+  highlightKey?: string;
+  state: KeyState;
+  /** Hold progress (0–1), fills the emphasised key from the bottom. */
+  progress?: number;
+}
+
+interface KeyCapProps {
+  label: string;
+  hero?: boolean;
+  state?: KeyState;
+  progress?: number;
+  className?: string;
+}
+
+function KeyCap({
+  label,
+  hero,
+  state = 'idle',
+  progress = 0,
+  className,
+}: KeyCapProps) {
+  return (
+    <div
+      className={cn(
+        'relative flex select-none items-center justify-center overflow-hidden rounded-lg border text-sm font-medium',
+        hero ? 'h-14 w-14 text-xl' : 'h-14',
+        !hero && 'border-border bg-muted text-muted-foreground/70',
+        hero &&
+          state === 'idle' &&
+          'border-primary/40 bg-primary/10 text-foreground motion-safe:animate-pulse',
+        hero &&
+          state === 'active' &&
+          'border-primary/60 bg-primary/20 text-foreground',
+        hero &&
+          state === 'success' &&
+          'border-emerald-500/50 bg-emerald-500/15 text-emerald-700 dark:text-emerald-200',
+        className,
+      )}
+    >
+      {hero && state !== 'success' && progress > 0 && (
+        <span
+          className="pointer-events-none absolute inset-x-0 bottom-0 bg-primary/25"
+          style={{ height: `${progress * 100}%` }}
+        />
+      )}
+      <span className="relative z-10">{label}</span>
+    </div>
+  );
+}
+
+/**
+ * Draws the record key in its physical context: Esc above, 1 to its right, and
+ * Tab / Q on the row below — so the key is recognisable on a real keyboard.
+ */
+export function OnboardingKeyboard({
+  highlightKey = '`',
+  state,
+  progress = 0,
+}: OnboardingKeyboardProps) {
+  return (
+    <div className="flex flex-col items-start gap-1.5">
+      <KeyCap label="esc" className="w-14 text-xs" />
+      <div className="flex gap-1.5">
+        <KeyCap label={highlightKey} hero state={state} progress={progress} />
+        <KeyCap label="1" className="w-14" />
+      </div>
+      <div className="flex gap-1.5">
+        <KeyCap label="tab" className="w-20 text-xs" />
+        <KeyCap label="Q" className="w-12" />
+      </div>
+    </div>
+  );
+}

js/desktop/src/features/onboarding/onboarding-overlay.tsx

@@ -0,0 +1,140 @@
+import { useCallback, useEffect, useRef, useState } from 'react';
+import { WindowControls } from '@/components/window-controls';
+import { KeyHint } from '@/components/key-hint';
+import { cn } from '@/lib/utils';
+import { OnboardingKeyboard } from './onboarding-keyboard';
+import { OnboardingStep } from './onboarding-step';
+import { HoldStep } from './hold-step';
+import { ToggleStep } from './toggle-step';
+import { TapStep } from './tap-step';
+import { PermissionStep } from './permission-step';
+
+const STEPS = ['welcome', 'hold', 'tap', 'toggle', 'permission'] as const;
+type Step = (typeof STEPS)[number];
+
+/**
+ * First-run wizard that teaches the record key. Rendered as a full-screen
+ * takeover (above PusherProvider) so none of the stream/compose keyboard
+ * handlers are mounted to compete for the same keys.
+ */
+export function OnboardingOverlay({ onComplete }: { onComplete: () => void }) {
+  const [step, setStep] = useState<Step>('welcome');
+  const panelRef = useRef<HTMLDivElement>(null);
+  const index = STEPS.indexOf(step);
+
+  const goNext = useCallback(() => {
+    setStep((cur) => STEPS[Math.min(STEPS.indexOf(cur) + 1, STEPS.length - 1)]);
+  }, []);
+
+  const goBack = useCallback(() => {
+    setStep((cur) => STEPS[Math.max(0, STEPS.indexOf(cur) - 1)]);
+  }, []);
+
+  // Focus the panel on the gesture steps so window-level key handling has a
+  // home; the static steps autofocus their primary button instead, which lets
+  // Enter activate it natively (no duplicate window handler).
+  useEffect(() => {
+    if (step === 'hold' || step === 'toggle' || step === 'tap') {
+      panelRef.current?.focus();
+    }
+  }, [step]);
+
+  // Esc skips the wizard from anywhere; ← (and Backspace) steps back.
+  useEffect(() => {
+    const onKey = (e: KeyboardEvent) => {
+      if (e.key === 'Escape') {
+        e.preventDefault();
+        onComplete();
+      } else if (e.key === 'Enter' && step === 'welcome') {
+        e.preventDefault();
+        goNext();
+      } else if (
+        e.key === 'ArrowLeft' ||
+        e.key === 'Backspace' ||
+        e.key === 'Delete'
+      ) {
+        e.preventDefault();
+        goBack();
+      }
+    };
+    window.addEventListener('keydown', onKey);
+    return () => window.removeEventListener('keydown', onKey);
+  }, [onComplete, goNext, step, goBack]);
+
+  return (
+    <div className="flex h-screen flex-col bg-background text-foreground">
+      <div className="drag-region flex items-center justify-between border-b border-border px-3 py-1">
+        <WindowControls />
+        <KeyHint
+          keys="Esc"
+          onClick={onComplete}
+          title="Skip onboarding (or press Esc)"
+          className="no-drag text-xs text-muted-foreground"
+        >
+          to skip
+        </KeyHint>
+      </div>
+
+      <div className="flex flex-1 items-center justify-center p-6">
+        <div
+          ref={panelRef}
+          tabIndex={-1}
+          role="dialog"
+          aria-label="Welcome to llink"
+          className="flex w-full max-w-md flex-col items-center gap-8 rounded-2xl border border-border bg-card p-10 outline-none"
+        >
+          {step === 'welcome' && (
+            <OnboardingStep
+              title="Welcome to llink"
+              subtitle="To use llink, you must learn the keyboard shortcuts. Don't worry, once you learn them, you'll feel like your flowing."
+            >
+              <OnboardingKeyboard highlightKey="`" state="idle" />
+            </OnboardingStep>
+          )}
+          {step === 'hold' && <HoldStep onAdvance={goNext} />}
+          {step === 'toggle' && <ToggleStep onAdvance={goNext} />}
+          {step === 'tap' && <TapStep onAdvance={goNext} />}
+          {step === 'permission' && <PermissionStep onAdvance={onComplete} />}
+
+          <div className="flex items-center justify-center gap-1.5">
+            {STEPS.map((s, i) => (
+              <span
+                key={s}
+                className={cn(
+                  'h-1.5 rounded-full transition-all',
+                  i === index
+                    ? 'w-6 bg-foreground'
+                    : i < index
+                      ? 'w-1.5 bg-foreground/40'
+                      : 'w-1.5 bg-foreground/15',
+                )}
+              />
+            ))}
+          </div>
+
+          <div className="flex min-h-5 items-center justify-center gap-4 text-xs text-muted-foreground">
+            {index > 0 && (
+              <KeyHint
+                keys="←"
+                onClick={goBack}
+                title="Back (or press ←)"
+                aria-label="Previous step"
+              >
+                back
+              </KeyHint>
+            )}
+            {step === 'welcome' && (
+              <KeyHint
+                keys="Enter"
+                onClick={goNext}
+                title="Continue (or press Enter)"
+              >
+                continue
+              </KeyHint>
+            )}
+          </div>
+        </div>
+      </div>
+    </div>
+  );
+}

js/desktop/src/features/onboarding/onboarding-step.tsx

@@ -0,0 +1,48 @@
+import type { ReactNode } from 'react';
+
+/** How long a success state lingers before the wizard auto-advances, in ms. */
+export const SUCCESS_DWELL_MS = 2000;
+
+interface OnboardingStepProps {
+  title: ReactNode;
+  subtitle?: ReactNode;
+  /** The interactive body (keyboard diagram, toggle, etc.). */
+  children?: ReactNode;
+  /** Live feedback line, announced to screen readers. */
+  status?: ReactNode;
+  /** Actions and hints below the body. */
+  footer?: ReactNode;
+}
+
+/** Shared layout so every onboarding step keeps the same vertical rhythm. */
+export function OnboardingStep({
+  title,
+  subtitle,
+  children,
+  status,
+  footer,
+}: OnboardingStepProps) {
+  return (
+    <div className="flex flex-col items-center gap-6 text-center">
+      <div className="space-y-2">
+        <h2 className="text-2xl font-semibold tracking-tight text-foreground">
+          {title}
+        </h2>
+        {subtitle && (
+          <p className="mx-auto max-w-xs text-sm text-muted-foreground">
+            {subtitle}
+          </p>
+        )}
+      </div>
+      {children && (
+        <div className="flex flex-col items-center gap-4 py-2">{children}</div>
+      )}
+      <p aria-live="polite" className="min-h-5 text-sm text-muted-foreground">
+        {status}
+      </p>
+      {footer && (
+        <div className="flex flex-col items-center gap-3">{footer}</div>
+      )}
+    </div>
+  );
+}

js/desktop/src/features/onboarding/permission-step.tsx

@@ -0,0 +1,53 @@
+import { useEffect, useState } from 'react';
+import { Check } from 'lucide-react';
+import { Button } from '@/components/ui/button';
+import { OnboardingStep, SUCCESS_DWELL_MS } from './onboarding-step';
+import { useMediaDevices } from '@/hooks/use-media-devices';
+
+export function PermissionStep({ onAdvance }: { onAdvance: () => void }) {
+  const { permissionState, requestLabels } = useMediaDevices();
+  const [requesting, setRequesting] = useState(false);
+  const granted = permissionState === 'granted';
+  const denied = permissionState === 'denied';
+
+  useEffect(() => {
+    if (!granted) return;
+    const t = setTimeout(onAdvance, SUCCESS_DWELL_MS);
+    return () => clearTimeout(t);
+  }, [granted, onAdvance]);
+
+  const handleAllow = async () => {
+    setRequesting(true);
+    await requestLabels();
+    setRequesting(false);
+  };
+
+  return (
+    <OnboardingStep
+      title="Allow mic and camera"
+      subtitle="llink records audio and video. Grant access once so recording just works."
+      status={
+        granted ? (
+          <span className="inline-flex items-center gap-1.5 text-emerald-600 dark:text-emerald-300">
+            <Check className="size-4" /> Access granted.
+          </span>
+        ) : denied ? (
+          <span className="text-muted-foreground">
+            No access yet. You can enable it later in System Settings.
+          </span>
+        ) : null
+      }
+      footer={
+        granted ? null : denied ? (
+          <Button variant="secondary" onClick={onAdvance} autoFocus>
+            Continue anyway
+          </Button>
+        ) : (
+          <Button onClick={handleAllow} disabled={requesting} autoFocus>
+            {requesting ? 'Requesting…' : 'Allow access'}
+          </Button>
+        )
+      }
+    />
+  );
+}

js/desktop/src/features/onboarding/tap-step.tsx

@@ -0,0 +1,56 @@
+import { useEffect } from 'react';
+import { Check } from 'lucide-react';
+import { OnboardingKeyboard } from './onboarding-keyboard';
+import { OnboardingStep, SUCCESS_DWELL_MS } from './onboarding-step';
+import { useTapGesture } from './use-tap-gesture';
+
+export function TapStep({ onAdvance }: { onAdvance: () => void }) {
+  const { taps, satisfied } = useTapGesture({
+    targetKey: '`',
+    targetCode: 'Backquote',
+    taps: 2,
+  });
+  const recording = taps === 1;
+
+  useEffect(() => {
+    if (!satisfied) return;
+    const t = setTimeout(onAdvance, SUCCESS_DWELL_MS);
+    return () => clearTimeout(t);
+  }, [satisfied, onAdvance]);
+
+  return (
+    <OnboardingStep
+      title={
+        satisfied
+          ? 'That is tap to toggle'
+          : recording
+            ? 'Recording…'
+            : 'Tap to start and stop'
+      }
+      subtitle={
+        satisfied
+          ? 'A quick tap starts recording, another tap finishes it.'
+          : recording
+            ? 'Now tap ` again to stop.'
+            : 'Prefer not to hold? Tap ` once to start recording.'
+      }
+      status={
+        satisfied ? (
+          <span className="inline-flex items-center gap-1.5 text-emerald-600 dark:text-emerald-300">
+            <Check className="size-4" /> Done.
+          </span>
+        ) : recording ? (
+          <span className="inline-flex items-center gap-2 text-muted-foreground">
+            <span className="size-2.5 rounded-full bg-red-500 motion-safe:animate-pulse" />
+            Recording
+          </span>
+        ) : null
+      }
+    >
+      <OnboardingKeyboard
+        highlightKey="`"
+        state={satisfied ? 'success' : recording ? 'active' : 'idle'}
+      />
+    </OnboardingStep>
+  );
+}

js/desktop/src/features/onboarding/toggle-step.tsx

@@ -0,0 +1,60 @@
+import { useEffect } from 'react';
+import { Check, Mic, Video } from 'lucide-react';
+import { OnboardingStep, SUCCESS_DWELL_MS } from './onboarding-step';
+import { useTapGesture } from './use-tap-gesture';
+import { VideoAudioToggle } from '@/components/video-audio-toggle';
+import { useMediaSettingsStore } from '@/stores/media-settings-store';
+
+export function ToggleStep({ onAdvance }: { onAdvance: () => void }) {
+  const recordingMode = useMediaSettingsStore((s) => s.recordingMode);
+  const setRecordingMode = useMediaSettingsStore((s) => s.setRecordingMode);
+
+  const { satisfied } = useTapGesture({
+    targetKey: 'v',
+    onTap: () => {
+      const current = useMediaSettingsStore.getState().recordingMode;
+      setRecordingMode(current === 'video' ? 'audio' : 'video');
+    },
+  });
+
+  useEffect(() => {
+    if (!satisfied) return;
+    const t = setTimeout(onAdvance, SUCCESS_DWELL_MS);
+    return () => clearTimeout(t);
+  }, [satisfied, onAdvance]);
+
+  // Teaching the toggle shouldn't permanently change the user's default mode.
+  useEffect(() => {
+    const original = useMediaSettingsStore.getState().recordingMode;
+    return () => setRecordingMode(original);
+  }, [setRecordingMode]);
+
+  const isVideo = recordingMode === 'video';
+
+  return (
+    <OnboardingStep
+      title={satisfied ? 'Audio or video, your call' : 'Switch audio and video'}
+      subtitle={
+        satisfied
+          ? 'Tap V before recording to choose how you show up.'
+          : 'Tap the V key to switch between video and audio.'
+      }
+      status={
+        satisfied ? (
+          <span className="inline-flex items-center gap-1.5 text-emerald-600 dark:text-emerald-300">
+            <Check className="size-4" />{' '}
+            {isVideo ? 'Back to video.' : 'Audio it is.'}
+          </span>
+        ) : null
+      }
+    >
+      <div className="flex size-32 flex-col items-center justify-center gap-2 rounded-2xl border border-border bg-muted text-foreground">
+        {isVideo ? <Video className="size-9" /> : <Mic className="size-9" />}
+        <span className="text-sm text-muted-foreground">
+          {isVideo ? 'Video' : 'Audio'}
+        </span>
+      </div>
+      <VideoAudioToggle />
+    </OnboardingStep>
+  );
+}

js/desktop/src/features/onboarding/use-hold-gesture.ts

@@ -0,0 +1,75 @@
+import { useEffect, useState } from 'react';
+import { isTypingTarget } from '@/lib/keyboard';
+
+export type HoldState = 'idle' | 'holding' | 'success';
+
+interface UseHoldGestureOptions {
+  /** Detected against KeyboardEvent.key. */
+  targetKey: string;
+  /** Optional KeyboardEvent.code fallback (e.g. 'Backquote'). */
+  targetCode?: string;
+  /** How long the key must be held before it counts, in ms. */
+  holdMs: number;
+}
+
+/**
+ * Detects a deliberate press-and-hold of a single key. Success is driven by a
+ * timer started on keydown rather than by keyup, so it still resolves if the OS
+ * swallows the keyup (e.g. macOS press-and-hold accent popover). Releasing early
+ * simply resets — a tutorial never fails the user.
+ */
+export function useHoldGesture({
+  targetKey,
+  targetCode,
+  holdMs,
+}: UseHoldGestureOptions) {
+  const [state, setState] = useState<HoldState>('idle');
+  const [progress, setProgress] = useState(0);
+
+  useEffect(() => {
+    let rafId = 0;
+    let startedAt = 0;
+    let done = false;
+
+    const matches = (e: KeyboardEvent) =>
+      e.key === targetKey || (targetCode != null && e.code === targetCode);
+
+    const tick = () => {
+      const next = Math.min((Date.now() - startedAt) / holdMs, 1);
+      setProgress(next);
+      if (next >= 1) {
+        done = true;
+        setState('success');
+        return;
+      }
+      rafId = requestAnimationFrame(tick);
+    };
+
+    const handleKeyDown = (e: KeyboardEvent) => {
+      if (done || e.repeat || isTypingTarget(e) || !matches(e)) return;
+      e.preventDefault();
+      startedAt = Date.now();
+      setState('holding');
+      cancelAnimationFrame(rafId);
+      rafId = requestAnimationFrame(tick);
+    };
+
+    const handleKeyUp = (e: KeyboardEvent) => {
+      if (done || !matches(e)) return;
+      cancelAnimationFrame(rafId);
+      startedAt = 0;
+      setProgress(0);
+      setState('idle');
+    };
+
+    window.addEventListener('keydown', handleKeyDown);
+    window.addEventListener('keyup', handleKeyUp);
+    return () => {
+      cancelAnimationFrame(rafId);
+      window.removeEventListener('keydown', handleKeyDown);
+      window.removeEventListener('keyup', handleKeyUp);
+    };
+  }, [targetKey, targetCode, holdMs]);
+
+  return { state, progress };
+}

js/desktop/src/features/onboarding/use-tap-gesture.ts

@@ -0,0 +1,52 @@
+import { useEffect, useRef, useState } from 'react';
+import { isTypingTarget } from '@/lib/keyboard';
+
+interface UseTapGestureOptions {
+  /** Detected against KeyboardEvent.key. */
+  targetKey: string;
+  /** Optional KeyboardEvent.code fallback (e.g. 'Backquote'). */
+  targetCode?: string;
+  /** Taps required before `satisfied` flips true. Defaults to 1. */
+  taps?: number;
+  /** Fires on each counted tap, with the new running count. */
+  onTap?: (count: number) => void;
+}
+
+/**
+ * Counts discrete taps of a single key, ignoring auto-repeat. Used both for the
+ * one-tap audio/video toggle and the two-tap start/stop demonstration.
+ */
+export function useTapGesture({
+  targetKey,
+  targetCode,
+  taps = 1,
+  onTap,
+}: UseTapGestureOptions) {
+  const [count, setCount] = useState(0);
+
+  const onTapRef = useRef(onTap);
+  useEffect(() => {
+    onTapRef.current = onTap;
+  });
+
+  useEffect(() => {
+    const matches = (e: KeyboardEvent) =>
+      e.key === targetKey || (targetCode != null && e.code === targetCode);
+
+    const handleKeyDown = (e: KeyboardEvent) => {
+      if (e.repeat || isTypingTarget(e) || !matches(e)) return;
+      e.preventDefault();
+      setCount((prev) => {
+        if (prev >= taps) return prev;
+        const next = prev + 1;
+        onTapRef.current?.(next);
+        return next;
+      });
+    };
+
+    window.addEventListener('keydown', handleKeyDown);
+    return () => window.removeEventListener('keydown', handleKeyDown);
+  }, [targetKey, targetCode, taps]);
+
+  return { taps: count, satisfied: count >= taps };
+}

js/desktop/src/features/particles/container-view.tsx

@@ -0,0 +1,269 @@
+import { useCallback, useEffect, useState } from 'react';
+import { useNavigate, useSearchParams } from 'react-router-dom';
+import { CircleCheckBig, CircleDot, FolderIcon } from 'lucide-react';
+import type { Particle } from '@/api/types';
+import { parseParticlePath, type ParticlePath } from '@/lib/particle-path';
+import { useAuthStore } from '@/stores/auth-store';
+import { useContainerChildren } from '@/hooks/use-container-children';
+import { useListKeyboardNav } from '@/hooks/use-list-keyboard-nav';
+import {
+  useCreateParticle,
+  useCreateStreamParticle,
+} from '@/hooks/use-create-particle';
+import { ParticleChildrenList } from '@/features/particles/particle-children-list';
+import { ComposeOverlay } from '@/features/compose/compose-overlay';
+import { ComposeQuotaIndicator } from '@/features/compose/compose-quota-indicator';
+import { ConfigureContainerStep } from '@/features/compose/configure-container-step';
+import { useComposeIntentStore } from '@/stores/compose-intent-store';
+import { VideoAudioToggle } from '@/components/video-audio-toggle';
+import { KeyHint } from '@/components/key-hint';
+import { Tabs, TabsList, TabsTrigger } from '@/components/ui/tabs';
+
+type ContainerKind = 'stream' | 'folder';
+
+interface ContainerViewProps {
+  /** Path of the container; network root when it has no segments. */
+  path: ParticlePath;
+  /** Present when the container is a folder particle (drives the header). */
+  folderParticle?: Particle & { type: 'folder' };
+}
+
+/**
+ * Browsable view of a container's children — used for both the network root
+ * and folders, which share the same structure: a mixed-type child list, the
+ * compose overlay, and one keyboard grammar. The root is just a folder
+ * without a doc.
+ */
+export function ContainerView({ path, folderParticle }: ContainerViewProps) {
+  const { networkId, segments } = parseParticlePath(path);
+  const isRoot = segments.length === 0;
+  const navigate = useNavigate();
+  const userId = useAuthStore((s) => s.user?.id);
+
+  const [composeActive, setComposeActive] = useState(false);
+  const [creating, setCreating] = useState<ContainerKind | null>(null);
+
+  const [searchParams, setSearchParams] = useSearchParams();
+  const statusTab: 'open' | 'closed' =
+    searchParams.get('status') === 'closed' ? 'closed' : 'open';
+  const setStatusTab = (next: 'open' | 'closed') => {
+    setSearchParams(
+      (prev) => {
+        const params = new URLSearchParams(prev);
+        params.set('status', next);
+        return params;
+      },
+      { replace: true },
+    );
+  };
+
+  // Folders are shelved for now: the root lists streams only, split by
+  // open/closed status (server-side filter, like before folders). Folder
+  // containers keep the mixed-type child list so the recursive container
+  // model can be revived later.
+  const { items, isLoading, canLoadMore, loadMore } = useContainerChildren(
+    path,
+    { streamStatus: isRoot ? statusTab : undefined },
+  );
+
+  const createParticle = useCreateParticle();
+  const createStream = useCreateStreamParticle();
+
+  const handleOpen = useCallback(
+    (particleId: string) => {
+      navigate(`/${networkId}/${[...segments, particleId].join('/')}`);
+    },
+    [navigate, networkId, segments],
+  );
+
+  const { selectedIndex } = useListKeyboardNav({
+    items,
+    enabled: !composeActive && creating === null,
+    onOpen: handleOpen,
+  });
+
+  // N creates a stream inside a folder. Root stream creation goes through the
+  // compose flow.
+  useEffect(() => {
+    if (isRoot || composeActive || creating !== null) return;
+    const handleKeyDown = (e: KeyboardEvent) => {
+      if (e.defaultPrevented) return;
+      const target = e.target as HTMLElement;
+      if (
+        target.tagName === 'INPUT' ||
+        target.tagName === 'TEXTAREA' ||
+        target.isContentEditable
+      ) {
+        return;
+      }
+      if (e.key === 'n' || e.key === 'N') {
+        e.preventDefault();
+        setCreating('stream');
+      }
+    };
+    window.addEventListener('keydown', handleKeyDown);
+    return () => window.removeEventListener('keydown', handleKeyDown);
+  }, [isRoot, composeActive, creating]);
+
+  const handleCreateContainer = useCallback(
+    async (name: string, visibleTo: string[]) => {
+      if (!userId || !creating) return;
+      const kind = creating;
+      setCreating(null);
+      const id =
+        kind === 'folder'
+          ? await createParticle.mutateAsync({
+              path,
+              type: 'folder',
+              properties: { name },
+              createdByHumanId: userId,
+              visibleTo,
+            })
+          : await createStream.mutateAsync({
+              networkId,
+              parentPath: path,
+              properties: { name },
+              createdByHumanId: userId,
+              visibleTo,
+            });
+      handleOpen(id);
+    },
+    [
+      userId,
+      creating,
+      path,
+      networkId,
+      createParticle,
+      createStream,
+      handleOpen,
+    ],
+  );
+
+  return (
+    <div className="relative flex min-h-0 flex-1 flex-col">
+      {isRoot && (
+        <div className="flex shrink-0 items-center border-b p-1">
+          <Tabs
+            value={statusTab}
+            onValueChange={(v) =>
+              setStatusTab(v === 'closed' ? 'closed' : 'open')
+            }
+          >
+            <TabsList>
+              <TabsTrigger value="open">
+                <CircleDot className="size-3 text-green-500" /> Open
+              </TabsTrigger>
+              <TabsTrigger value="closed">
+                <CircleCheckBig className="size-3" /> Closed
+              </TabsTrigger>
+            </TabsList>
+          </Tabs>
+        </div>
+      )}
+      {folderParticle && (
+        <div className="flex shrink-0 items-center gap-2 border-b px-4 py-3">
+          <span className="flex size-7 items-center justify-center rounded-md bg-amber-500/15">
+            <FolderIcon className="size-4 text-amber-500" />
+          </span>
+          <h1 className="truncate text-sm font-semibold">
+            {folderParticle.properties.name}
+          </h1>
+        </div>
+      )}
+
+      <div className="min-h-0 flex-1 overflow-y-auto overscroll-contain pb-14 py-2">
+        <ParticleChildrenList
+          items={items}
+          networkId={networkId}
+          isLoading={isLoading}
+          onOpen={handleOpen}
+          selectedIndex={selectedIndex}
+          canLoadMore={canLoadMore}
+          onLoadMore={loadMore}
+          emptyMessage={
+            !isRoot
+              ? 'This folder is empty. Add something using the keyboard shortcuts below.'
+              : statusTab === 'closed'
+                ? 'No closed streams.'
+                : 'No streams here. Start a conversation using the keyboard shortcuts below.'
+          }
+        />
+      </div>
+
+      <ComposeOverlay
+        networkId={networkId}
+        targetPath={isRoot ? undefined : path}
+        onActiveChange={setComposeActive}
+      />
+      {!composeActive && (
+        <div className="pointer-events-none absolute inset-x-0 bottom-16 z-20 flex justify-center px-3">
+          <ComposeQuotaIndicator networkId={networkId} />
+        </div>
+      )}
+      <div className="pointer-events-none absolute inset-x-0 bottom-0 z-20 flex justify-center p-3">
+        <div className="pointer-events-auto">
+          <ContainerControls
+            isRoot={isRoot}
+            onCreateStream={() => setCreating('stream')}
+          />
+        </div>
+      </div>
+
+      {creating && (
+        <ConfigureContainerStep
+          kind={creating}
+          networkId={networkId}
+          onCancel={() => setCreating(null)}
+          onSubmit={handleCreateContainer}
+        />
+      )}
+    </div>
+  );
+}
+
+function ContainerControls({
+  isRoot,
+  onCreateStream,
+}: {
+  isRoot: boolean;
+  onCreateStream: () => void;
+}) {
+  const requestIntent = useComposeIntentStore((s) => s.request);
+  return (
+    <div className="text-muted-foreground flex items-center gap-4 text-sm">
+      <KeyHint keys={['↑↓', 'Enter']}>navigate</KeyHint>
+      <KeyHint keys="1–9">jump</KeyHint>
+      <VideoAudioToggle />
+      <KeyHint
+        keys="Hold `"
+        onClick={() => requestIntent('record')}
+        title="Start recording (or hold `)"
+      >
+        to start
+      </KeyHint>
+      <KeyHint
+        keys="T"
+        onClick={() => requestIntent('text')}
+        title="Compose text (or press T)"
+      >
+        text
+      </KeyHint>
+      <KeyHint
+        keys="D"
+        onClick={() => requestIntent('task')}
+        title="Create a task (or press D)"
+      >
+        task
+      </KeyHint>
+      {!isRoot && (
+        <KeyHint
+          keys="N"
+          onClick={onCreateStream}
+          title="Create a stream here (or press N)"
+        >
+          stream
+        </KeyHint>
+      )}
+    </div>
+  );
+}

js/desktop/src/features/particles/delete-particle-overlay.tsx

@@ -2,21 +2,25 @@ import { useCallback, useState } from 'react';
 import { toast } from 'sonner';
 import { ConfirmDestructiveOverlay } from '@/components/confirm-destructive-overlay';
 import { softDeleteParticle } from '@/lib/firestore-particles';
-import { particlePath, toFirestoreDocPath } from '@/lib/particle-path';
+import {
+  particlePath,
+  parseParticlePath,
+  toFirestoreDocPath,
+  type ParticlePath,
+} from '@/lib/particle-path';
 import type { Particle } from '@/api/types';
 import { useSuspendPlayback } from '@/hooks/use-suspend-playback';
 
 interface DeleteParticleOverlayProps {
-  networkId: string;
-  streamId: string;
+  /** Path of the stream the particle lives in — may be nested. */
+  streamPath: ParticlePath;
   particle: Particle;
   userId: string;
   onClose: () => void;
 }
 
 export function DeleteParticleOverlay({
-  networkId,
-  streamId,
+  streamPath,
   particle,
   userId,
   onClose,
@@ -29,8 +33,9 @@ export function DeleteParticleOverlay({
     if (deleting) return;
     setDeleting(true);
     try {
+      const { networkId, segments } = parseParticlePath(streamPath);
       const docPath = toFirestoreDocPath(
-        particlePath(networkId, [streamId, particle.id]),
+        particlePath(networkId, [...segments, particle.id]),
       );
       await softDeleteParticle(docPath, userId);
       toast.success('Particle deleted');
@@ -41,7 +46,7 @@ export function DeleteParticleOverlay({
       toast.error(message);
       setDeleting(false);
     }
-  }, [deleting, networkId, onClose, particle.id, streamId, userId]);
+  }, [deleting, onClose, particle.id, streamPath, userId]);
 
   return (
     <ConfirmDestructiveOverlay

js/desktop/src/features/particles/deleted-particle-view.tsx

@@ -38,14 +38,16 @@ export function DeletedParticleView({
   }, [paused, onEnded, particle.id]);
 
   return (
-    <div className="flex h-full w-full items-center justify-center bg-gradient-to-b from-black/40 via-black/20 to-black/40 px-8">
+    <div className="flex h-full w-full items-center justify-center px-8">
       <div className="flex flex-col items-center gap-3 text-center">
-        <Trash2 className="text-white/40 size-6" />
-        <p className="text-white/70 text-base font-medium">
+        <Trash2 className="text-muted-foreground size-6" />
+        <p className="text-foreground text-base font-medium">
           This particle was deleted
         </p>
         {deleter && (
-          <p className="text-white/40 text-xs">by {deleter.displayName}</p>
+          <p className="text-muted-foreground text-xs">
+            by {deleter.displayName}
+          </p>
         )}
       </div>
     </div>

js/desktop/src/features/particles/fallback-particle-view.tsx

@@ -6,17 +6,11 @@ import {
   CardHeader,
   CardTitle,
 } from '@/components/ui/card';
-import {
-  FileIcon,
-  HelpCircleIcon,
-  ScrollTextIcon,
-  BookOpenIcon,
-} from 'lucide-react';
+import { FileIcon, HelpCircleIcon, BookOpenIcon } from 'lucide-react';
 import { useNetwork } from '@/hooks/use-networks';
 import { resolveHumanDisplay } from '@/lib/humans';
 
 const TYPE_META: Record<string, { icon: typeof FileIcon; label: string }> = {
-  quest: { icon: ScrollTextIcon, label: 'Quest' },
   paper: { icon: BookOpenIcon, label: 'Paper' },
   file: { icon: FileIcon, label: 'File' },
 };
@@ -37,19 +31,19 @@ export function FallbackParticleView({
   );
   const meta = TYPE_META[particle.type] ?? {
     icon: HelpCircleIcon,
-    label: particle.type,
+    label: particle.type === 'unknown' ? particle.raw_type : particle.type,
   };
   const Icon = meta.icon;
   const title = (() => {
     switch (particle.type) {
-      case 'quest':
-        return particle.properties.title;
       case 'paper':
         return particle.properties.title;
       case 'file':
         return particle.properties.filename;
       case 'folder':
         return particle.properties.name;
+      case 'unknown':
+        return 'Not supported in this version of the app';
       default:
         return null;
     }

js/desktop/src/features/particles/folder-view.tsx

@@ -1,21 +1,12 @@
 import { Particle } from '@/api/types';
-import { parseParticlePath, type ParticlePath } from '@/lib/particle-path';
-import { ComposeOverlay } from '@/features/compose/compose-overlay';
+import { type ParticlePath } from '@/lib/particle-path';
+import { ContainerView } from '@/features/particles/container-view';
 
 interface FolderViewProps {
-  folderParticle: Particle;
+  folderParticle: Particle & { type: 'folder' };
   path: ParticlePath;
 }
 
 export function FolderView({ path, folderParticle }: FolderViewProps) {
-  const { networkId } = parseParticlePath(path);
-
-  return (
-    <div className="flex h-full items-center justify-center">
-      <p className="text-muted-foreground text-sm">
-        Folder view — {folderParticle.id}
-      </p>
-      <ComposeOverlay networkId={networkId} />
-    </div>
-  );
+  return <ContainerView path={path} folderParticle={folderParticle} />;
 }

js/desktop/src/features/particles/media-particle-view.tsx

@@ -141,7 +141,7 @@ export const MediaParticleView = forwardRef<
 
   if (isAudio) {
     return (
-      <div className="relative flex h-full w-full items-center justify-center bg-black/90">
+      <div className="bg-scrim/90 relative flex h-full w-full items-center justify-center">
         <audio
           ref={(el) => {
             audioRef.current = el;
@@ -186,7 +186,7 @@ export const MediaParticleView = forwardRef<
         playsInline
         onEnded={onEnded}
         onTimeUpdate={handleTimeUpdate}
-        className="h-full w-full object-contain bg-black"
+        className="bg-black h-full w-full object-contain"
       />
 
       {transcript && (

js/desktop/src/features/particles/particle-attachments.tsx

@@ -63,7 +63,7 @@ function ImageAttachment({
   );
 
   if (isLoading || !url) {
-    return <Skeleton className="h-20 w-20 shrink-0 rounded-lg bg-white/10" />;
+    return <Skeleton className="h-20 w-20 shrink-0 rounded-lg" />;
   }
 
   const handleDownload = (e: React.MouseEvent) => {
@@ -78,7 +78,7 @@ function ImageAttachment({
         e.stopPropagation();
         onPreview();
       }}
-      className="group relative block h-30 w-40 shrink-0 overflow-hidden rounded-lg bg-white/10"
+      className="bg-muted group relative block h-30 w-40 shrink-0 overflow-hidden rounded-lg"
     >
       <img
         src={url}
@@ -89,7 +89,7 @@ function ImageAttachment({
         role="button"
         tabIndex={0}
         onClick={handleDownload}
-        className="absolute bottom-1 right-1 rounded-full bg-black/60 p-1 text-white/70 opacity-0 transition-opacity hover:text-white group-hover:opacity-100"
+        className="bg-scrim/60 absolute bottom-1 right-1 rounded-full p-1 text-white/80 opacity-0 transition-opacity hover:text-white group-hover:opacity-100"
       >
         <Download className="size-3.5" />
       </span>
@@ -123,14 +123,14 @@ function FileAttachment({
     <div
       role="button"
       onClick={handleOpen}
-      className="flex shrink-0 cursor-pointer flex-col gap-1.5 rounded-lg bg-white/10 px-3 py-2 transition-colors hover:bg-white/15"
+      className="bg-muted hover:bg-accent flex shrink-0 cursor-pointer flex-col gap-1.5 rounded-lg px-3 py-2 transition-colors"
     >
       <div className="flex items-center gap-2">
-        <FileIcon className="size-4 shrink-0 text-white/60" />
-        <span className="max-w-[10rem] truncate text-xs font-medium text-white/90">
+        <FileIcon className="text-muted-foreground size-4 shrink-0" />
+        <span className="text-foreground max-w-[10rem] truncate text-xs font-medium">
           {particle.properties.filename}
         </span>
-        <span className="text-[10px] text-white/40">
+        <span className="text-muted-foreground text-[10px]">
           {formatFileSize(particle.properties.size_bytes)}
         </span>
       </div>
@@ -138,7 +138,7 @@ function FileAttachment({
         <Button
           variant="ghost"
           size="xs"
-          className="text-white/70 hover:bg-white/10 hover:text-white"
+          className="text-muted-foreground"
           onClick={handleOpen}
         >
           <ExternalLink data-icon="inline-start" />
@@ -147,7 +147,7 @@ function FileAttachment({
         <Button
           variant="ghost"
           size="xs"
-          className="text-white/70 hover:bg-white/10 hover:text-white"
+          className="text-muted-foreground"
           onClick={handleDownload}
         >
           <Download data-icon="inline-start" />
@@ -177,7 +177,7 @@ function CompactAttachmentItem({
         e.stopPropagation();
         openParticle(particle, index, url, onPreview);
       }}
-      className="flex w-full items-center gap-2 rounded-md bg-white/10 px-2.5 py-1.5 text-left transition-colors hover:bg-white/15"
+      className="bg-muted hover:bg-accent flex w-full items-center gap-2 rounded-md px-2.5 py-1.5 text-left transition-colors"
     >
       {isImage ? (
         url ? (
@@ -187,15 +187,15 @@ function CompactAttachmentItem({
             className="size-5 shrink-0 rounded object-cover"
           />
         ) : (
-          <ImageIcon className="size-4 shrink-0 text-white/50" />
+          <ImageIcon className="text-muted-foreground size-4 shrink-0" />
         )
       ) : (
-        <FileIcon className="size-4 shrink-0 text-white/50" />
+        <FileIcon className="text-muted-foreground size-4 shrink-0" />
       )}
-      <span className="min-w-0 truncate text-xs text-white/80">
+      <span className="text-foreground min-w-0 truncate text-xs">
         {particle.properties.filename}
       </span>
-      <span className="shrink-0 text-[10px] text-white/40">
+      <span className="text-muted-foreground shrink-0 text-[10px]">
         {formatFileSize(particle.properties.size_bytes)}
       </span>
     </button>

js/desktop/src/features/particles/particle-children-list.tsx

@@ -1,25 +1,12 @@
 import {
+  Fragment,
   useMemo,
   useRef,
   useEffect,
-  useCallback,
   memo,
   createElement,
 } from 'react';
-import { useNavigate } from 'react-router-dom';
-import {
-  Radio,
-  MessageSquare,
-  Video,
-  Mic,
-  Image,
-  FileText,
-  CircleCheck,
-  StickyNote,
-  Headphones,
-  Trash2,
-  type LucideIcon,
-} from 'lucide-react';
+import { Headphones, Radio, FolderIcon } from 'lucide-react';
 import { cn, getInitials } from '@/lib/utils';
 import { useLiveLatestChild } from '@/hooks/use-particle';
 import { useAuthStore } from '@/stores/auth-store';
@@ -36,12 +23,17 @@ import {
   type Particle,
   type StreamProperties,
 } from '@/api/types';
-import type { StreamParticle } from '@/hooks/use-stream-particles';
 import { useNetwork } from '@/hooks/use-networks';
 import { useStreamAutoplay } from '@/hooks/use-stream-autoplay';
 import { useDownloadUrl } from '@/hooks/use-download-url';
+import { getMessagePreview, getParticleTypeIcon } from '@/lib/particle-display';
 import { StreamContextMenu } from '@/features/particles/stream-context-menu';
 
+type StreamParticle = Particle & {
+  type: 'stream';
+  properties: StreamProperties;
+};
+
 function VideoThumbnail({
   objectId,
   isUnseen,
@@ -71,65 +63,16 @@ function VideoThumbnail({
   );
 }
 
-function getParticleTypeIcon(particle: Particle): LucideIcon {
-  if (isParticleDeleted(particle)) return Trash2;
-  switch (particle.type) {
-    case 'text':
-      return MessageSquare;
-    case 'media': {
-      const mime = particle.properties.mime_type;
-      if (mime.startsWith('video/')) return Video;
-      if (mime.startsWith('audio/')) return Mic;
-      if (mime.startsWith('image/')) return Image;
-      return Video;
-    }
-    case 'file':
-      return FileText;
-    case 'quest':
-      return CircleCheck;
-    case 'paper':
-      return StickyNote;
-    default:
-      return Radio;
-  }
-}
-
-function getMessagePreview(particle: Particle): string {
-  if (isParticleDeleted(particle)) return 'Deleted particle';
-  switch (particle.type) {
-    case 'text':
-      return particle.properties.content;
-    case 'media': {
-      const mime = particle.properties.mime_type;
-      if (mime.startsWith('image/')) return 'Photo';
-      if (mime.startsWith('video/') || mime.startsWith('audio/')) {
-        const transcriptText = particle.properties.transcript?.transcript;
-        if (transcriptText) return transcriptText;
-        return mime.startsWith('video/') ? 'Video clip' : 'Voice note';
-      }
-      return 'Media';
-    }
-    case 'file':
-      return particle.properties.filename;
-    case 'quest':
-      return particle.properties.title;
-    case 'paper':
-      return particle.properties.title;
-    default:
-      return particle.type;
-  }
-}
-
 const StreamRow = memo(function StreamRow({
   particle,
   networkId,
-  onNavigate,
+  onOpen,
   isSelected,
   shortcutKey,
 }: {
-  particle: Particle & { type: 'stream'; properties: StreamProperties };
+  particle: StreamParticle;
   networkId: string;
-  onNavigate: (streamId: string) => void;
+  onOpen: (particleId: string) => void;
   isSelected?: boolean;
   shortcutKey?: number;
 }) {
@@ -237,9 +180,9 @@ const StreamRow = memo(function StreamRow({
     <div
       role="button"
       tabIndex={0}
-      onClick={() => onNavigate(particle.id)}
+      onClick={() => onOpen(particle.id)}
       onKeyDown={(e) => {
-        if (e.key === 'Enter' || e.key === ' ') onNavigate(particle.id);
+        if (e.key === 'Enter' || e.key === ' ') onOpen(particle.id);
       }}
       className={cn(
         'flex w-full items-center gap-3 px-4 py-3 text-left cursor-pointer transition-colors hover:bg-accent',
@@ -248,7 +191,7 @@ const StreamRow = memo(function StreamRow({
       )}
     >
       {shortcutKey && (
-        <kbd className="flex size-5 shrink-0 items-center justify-center rounded bg-white/10 font-mono text-xs text-muted-foreground">
+        <kbd className="bg-muted text-muted-foreground flex size-5 shrink-0 items-center justify-center rounded font-mono text-xs">
           {shortcutKey}
         </kbd>
       )}
@@ -277,8 +220,8 @@ const StreamRow = memo(function StreamRow({
           <div className="flex shrink-0 items-center gap-1.5">
             {hasActiveHuddle && (
               <span className="flex items-center gap-1 rounded-full bg-red-500/15 px-1.5 py-0.5">
-                <Headphones className="size-3 text-red-400" />
-                <span className="text-[10px] font-medium text-red-400">
+                <Headphones className="size-3 text-red-600 dark:text-red-400" />
+                <span className="text-[10px] font-medium text-red-600 dark:text-red-400">
                   {huddleCount}
                 </span>
               </span>
@@ -322,34 +265,160 @@ const StreamRow = memo(function StreamRow({
   );
 });
 
-interface ParticleListViewProps {
-  streams: StreamParticle[];
+const FolderRow = memo(function FolderRow({
+  particle,
+  networkId,
+  onOpen,
+  isSelected,
+  shortcutKey,
+}: {
+  particle: Particle & { type: 'folder' };
+  networkId: string;
+  onOpen: (particleId: string) => void;
+  isSelected?: boolean;
+  shortcutKey?: number;
+}) {
+  const network = useNetwork(networkId);
+  const creator = resolveHumanDisplay(
+    particle.created_by_human_id,
+    network?.humans,
+  );
+
+  return (
+    <div
+      role="button"
+      tabIndex={0}
+      onClick={() => onOpen(particle.id)}
+      onKeyDown={(e) => {
+        if (e.key === 'Enter' || e.key === ' ') onOpen(particle.id);
+      }}
+      className={cn(
+        'flex w-full items-center gap-3 px-4 py-3 text-left cursor-pointer transition-colors hover:bg-accent',
+        isSelected && 'bg-accent',
+      )}
+    >
+      {shortcutKey && (
+        <kbd className="bg-muted text-muted-foreground flex size-5 shrink-0 items-center justify-center rounded font-mono text-xs">
+          {shortcutKey}
+        </kbd>
+      )}
+      <span className="flex size-8 shrink-0 items-center justify-center rounded-md bg-amber-500/15">
+        <FolderIcon className="size-4 text-amber-500" />
+      </span>
+      <div className="min-w-0 flex-1">
+        <p className="truncate text-sm font-medium text-foreground">
+          {particle.properties.name}
+        </p>
+        <Small className="text-muted-foreground font-normal">
+          Folder · {creator.displayName}
+        </Small>
+      </div>
+      <Small className="shrink-0 text-muted-foreground">
+        <RelativeTimestamp date={particle.created_at} />
+      </Small>
+    </div>
+  );
+});
+
+const LeafRow = memo(function LeafRow({
+  particle,
+  networkId,
+  onOpen,
+  isSelected,
+  shortcutKey,
+}: {
+  particle: Particle;
+  networkId: string;
+  onOpen: (particleId: string) => void;
+  isSelected?: boolean;
+  shortcutKey?: number;
+}) {
+  const network = useNetwork(networkId);
+  const creator = resolveHumanDisplay(
+    particle.created_by_human_id,
+    network?.humans,
+  );
+  const typeIcon = getParticleTypeIcon(particle);
+  const deleted = isParticleDeleted(particle);
+  const taskDone = particle.type === 'task' && particle.properties.done;
+
+  return (
+    <div
+      role="button"
+      tabIndex={0}
+      onClick={() => onOpen(particle.id)}
+      onKeyDown={(e) => {
+        if (e.key === 'Enter' || e.key === ' ') onOpen(particle.id);
+      }}
+      className={cn(
+        'flex w-full items-center gap-3 px-4 py-3 text-left cursor-pointer transition-colors hover:bg-accent',
+        isSelected && 'bg-accent',
+      )}
+    >
+      {shortcutKey && (
+        <kbd className="bg-muted text-muted-foreground flex size-5 shrink-0 items-center justify-center rounded font-mono text-xs">
+          {shortcutKey}
+        </kbd>
+      )}
+      {createElement(typeIcon, {
+        className: cn(
+          'size-4 shrink-0 text-muted-foreground',
+          taskDone && 'text-emerald-500',
+        ),
+      })}
+      <div className="min-w-0 flex-1">
+        <p
+          className={cn(
+            'truncate text-sm',
+            deleted || taskDone
+              ? 'text-muted-foreground line-through'
+              : 'text-foreground',
+          )}
+        >
+          {getMessagePreview(particle)}
+        </p>
+        <Small className="text-muted-foreground font-normal">
+          {creator.displayName}
+        </Small>
+      </div>
+      <Small className="shrink-0 text-muted-foreground">
+        <RelativeTimestamp date={particle.created_at} />
+      </Small>
+    </div>
+  );
+});
+
+interface ParticleChildrenListProps {
+  items: Particle[];
   networkId: string;
   isLoading: boolean;
+  /** Open (navigate into / select) a particle by id. */
+  onOpen: (particleId: string) => void;
   selectedIndex?: number | null;
+  /** Render 1–9 shortcut badges next to the first nine rows. */
+  showShortcuts?: boolean;
+  emptyMessage?: string;
   /** When true, render a footer that invokes onLoadMore. */
   canLoadMore?: boolean;
   onLoadMore?: () => void;
 }
 
 /**
- * List of stream particles for a container (network root, folder, etc.).
+ * Browsable list of a container's children, any particle type. Used by the
+ * network root and folder views.
  */
-export function ParticleListView({
-  streams,
+export function ParticleChildrenList({
+  items,
   networkId,
   isLoading,
+  onOpen,
   selectedIndex,
+  showShortcuts = true,
+  emptyMessage = 'Nothing here yet. Create something using the keyboard shortcuts below.',
   canLoadMore,
   onLoadMore,
-}: ParticleListViewProps) {
-  const navigate = useNavigate();
-  const rowRefs = useRef<(HTMLDivElement | null)[]>([]);
-
-  const navigateToStream = useCallback(
-    (streamId: string) => navigate(`/${networkId}/${streamId}`),
-    [navigate, networkId],
-  );
+}: ParticleChildrenListProps) {
+  const rowRefs = useRef<Array<HTMLDivElement | null>>([]);
 
   useEffect(() => {
     if (
@@ -365,42 +434,52 @@ export function ParticleListView({
     return <Progress />;
   }
 
-  if (streams.length === 0) {
+  if (items.length === 0) {
     return (
       <div className="mx-auto flex h-full max-w-sm flex-col items-center justify-center gap-2 px-4 text-center">
         <Radio className="text-muted-foreground size-8" />
-        <p className="text-muted-foreground text-sm">
-          No streams here. Start a conversation using the keyboard shortcuts
-          below.
-        </p>
+        <p className="text-muted-foreground text-sm">{emptyMessage}</p>
       </div>
     );
   }
 
   return (
     <div>
-      {streams.map((stream, index) => (
-        <StreamContextMenu
-          key={stream.id}
-          particle={stream}
-          networkId={networkId}
-        >
+      {items.map((item, index) => {
+        const rowProps = {
+          networkId,
+          onOpen,
+          isSelected: index === selectedIndex,
+          shortcutKey: showShortcuts && index < 9 ? index + 1 : undefined,
+        };
+        const row = (
           <div
             ref={(el) => {
               rowRefs.current[index] = el;
             }}
           >
-            <StreamRow
-              particle={stream}
-              networkId={networkId}
-              onNavigate={navigateToStream}
-              isSelected={index === selectedIndex}
-              shortcutKey={index < 9 ? index + 1 : undefined}
-            />
-            {index < streams.length - 1 && <Separator className="px-4" />}
+            {item.type === 'stream' ? (
+              <StreamRow particle={item} {...rowProps} />
+            ) : item.type === 'folder' ? (
+              <FolderRow particle={item} {...rowProps} />
+            ) : (
+              <LeafRow particle={item} {...rowProps} />
+            )}
+            {index < items.length - 1 && <Separator className="px-4" />}
           </div>
-        </StreamContextMenu>
-      ))}
+        );
+        return item.type === 'stream' ? (
+          <StreamContextMenu
+            key={item.id}
+            particle={item}
+            networkId={networkId}
+          >
+            {row}
+          </StreamContextMenu>
+        ) : (
+          <Fragment key={item.id}>{row}</Fragment>
+        );
+      })}
       {canLoadMore && onLoadMore && (
         <div className="flex justify-center p-3">
           <Button variant="ghost" size="sm" onClick={onLoadMore}>

js/desktop/src/features/particles/particle-preview.tsx

@@ -5,11 +5,12 @@ import { Skeleton } from '@/components/ui/skeleton';
 import {
   Video,
   Mic,
-  ScrollText,
+  CircleCheck,
   BookOpen,
   FileIcon,
   FolderIcon,
 } from 'lucide-react';
+import { cn } from '@/lib/utils';
 
 export function ParticlePreview({ particle }: { particle: Particle }) {
   switch (particle.type) {
@@ -17,8 +18,8 @@ export function ParticlePreview({ particle }: { particle: Particle }) {
       return <TextPreview particle={particle} />;
     case 'media':
       return <MediaPreview particle={particle} />;
-    case 'quest':
-      return <QuestPreview particle={particle} />;
+    case 'task':
+      return <TaskPreview particle={particle} />;
     case 'paper':
       return <PaperPreview particle={particle} />;
     case 'file':
@@ -68,9 +69,9 @@ function MediaPreview({
   }
 
   return (
-    <div className="flex h-full w-full flex-col items-center justify-center gap-2 bg-black/90">
-      <Mic className="h-8 w-8 text-white/60" />
-      <span className="font-mono text-xs text-white/50">{durationLabel}</span>
+    <div className="bg-muted text-muted-foreground flex h-full w-full flex-col items-center justify-center gap-2">
+      <Mic className="h-8 w-8" />
+      <span className="font-mono text-xs">{durationLabel}</span>
     </div>
   );
 }
@@ -102,8 +103,8 @@ function VideoThumbnail({
 
   if (error) {
     return (
-      <div className="flex h-full w-full items-center justify-center bg-black/80">
-        <Video className="h-8 w-8 text-white/40" />
+      <div className="bg-muted flex h-full w-full items-center justify-center">
+        <Video className="text-muted-foreground h-8 w-8" />
       </div>
     );
   }
@@ -113,7 +114,7 @@ function VideoThumbnail({
   }
 
   return (
-    <div className="relative h-full w-full bg-black">
+    <div className="bg-muted relative h-full w-full">
       <video
         src={`${url}#t=2`}
         preload="metadata"
@@ -121,28 +122,37 @@ function VideoThumbnail({
         playsInline
         className="h-full w-full object-cover"
       />
-      <span className="absolute right-1.5 bottom-1.5 rounded bg-black/70 px-1.5 py-0.5 font-mono text-[10px] text-white/80">
+      <span className="bg-scrim/70 absolute bottom-1.5 right-1.5 rounded px-1.5 py-0.5 font-mono text-[10px] text-white">
         {duration}
       </span>
     </div>
   );
 }
 
-function QuestPreview({
+function TaskPreview({
   particle,
 }: {
-  particle: Extract<Particle, { type: 'quest' }>;
+  particle: Extract<Particle, { type: 'task' }>;
 }) {
-  const { title, status } = particle.properties;
+  const { title, done } = particle.properties;
   return (
     <div className="flex h-full w-full flex-col items-center justify-center gap-2 bg-amber-500/10 p-4">
-      <ScrollText className="h-6 w-6 text-amber-600/70 dark:text-amber-400/70" />
-      <p className="line-clamp-2 text-center text-sm font-medium">{title}</p>
-      {status && (
-        <span className="text-muted-foreground text-[10px] uppercase tracking-wide">
-          {status}
-        </span>
-      )}
+      <CircleCheck
+        className={cn(
+          'h-6 w-6',
+          done
+            ? 'text-emerald-600/80 dark:text-emerald-400/80'
+            : 'text-amber-600/70 dark:text-amber-400/70',
+        )}
+      />
+      <p
+        className={cn(
+          'line-clamp-2 text-center text-sm font-medium',
+          done && 'text-muted-foreground line-through',
+        )}
+      >
+        {title}
+      </p>
     </div>
   );
 }

js/desktop/src/features/particles/particle-view-resolver.tsx

@@ -2,12 +2,19 @@ import { useEffect } from 'react';
 import { useNavigate, useParams } from 'react-router-dom';
 import { useQueryClient } from '@tanstack/react-query';
 import { Lock } from 'lucide-react';
+import { isParticleDeleted, type Particle } from '@/api/types';
 import { useLiveParticle } from '@/hooks/use-particle';
-import { particlePath } from '@/lib/particle-path';
+import { particlePath, type ParticlePath } from '@/lib/particle-path';
 import { Button } from '@/components/ui/button';
 
+import Layout from '@/features/layout';
 import { StreamView } from '@/features/particles/stream-view';
 import { FolderView } from '@/features/particles/folder-view';
+import { MediaParticleView } from '@/features/particles/media-particle-view';
+import { TextParticleView } from '@/features/particles/text-particle-view';
+import { TaskParticleView } from '@/features/particles/task-particle-view';
+import { FallbackParticleView } from '@/features/particles/fallback-particle-view';
+import { DeletedParticleView } from '@/features/particles/deleted-particle-view';
 
 /**
  * Route-level component for /:networkId/*.
@@ -25,9 +32,11 @@ export default function ParticleViewResolver() {
 
   if (isLoading) {
     return (
-      <div className="flex h-full items-center justify-center">
-        <p className="text-muted-foreground text-sm">Loading...</p>
-      </div>
+      <Layout>
+        <div className="flex h-full items-center justify-center">
+          <p className="text-muted-foreground text-sm">Loading...</p>
+        </div>
+      </Layout>
     );
   }
 
@@ -35,25 +44,106 @@ export default function ParticleViewResolver() {
     // Errors here are almost always Firestore permission-denied — the user lost
     // access to the network or to a custom-visibility particle. The React Router
     // stays on the dead route, so without an explicit escape the user is stuck.
-    return <InaccessibleParticle />;
+    return (
+      <Layout>
+        <InaccessibleParticle />
+      </Layout>
+    );
   }
 
+  // Streams render their own full-screen chrome; folders and leaves live
+  // inside the app Layout (breadcrumbs, full-height column) like the root.
   switch (particle.type) {
     case 'stream':
       return <StreamView streamParticle={particle} path={path} />;
     case 'folder':
-      return <FolderView folderParticle={particle} path={path} />;
+      return (
+        <Layout>
+          <FolderView folderParticle={particle} path={path} />
+        </Layout>
+      );
     default:
       return (
-        <div className="flex h-full items-center justify-center">
-          <p className="text-muted-foreground text-sm">
-            {particle.type} particle: {particle.id}
-          </p>
-        </div>
+        <Layout>
+          <LeafParticleView
+            particle={particle}
+            containerPath={particlePath(networkId, segments.slice(0, -1))}
+            networkId={networkId}
+          />
+        </Layout>
       );
   }
 }
 
+const noop = () => {};
+
+/**
+ * Standalone view for a leaf particle opened directly (e.g. from a folder),
+ * outside any stream playback: renders the particle's native view with no
+ * auto-advance.
+ */
+function LeafParticleView({
+  particle,
+  containerPath,
+  networkId,
+}: {
+  particle: Particle;
+  containerPath: ParticlePath;
+  networkId: string;
+}) {
+  const content = (() => {
+    if (isParticleDeleted(particle)) {
+      return (
+        <DeletedParticleView
+          particle={particle}
+          networkId={networkId}
+          paused
+          onEnded={noop}
+        />
+      );
+    }
+    switch (particle.type) {
+      case 'media':
+        return (
+          <MediaParticleView
+            particle={particle}
+            streamPath={containerPath}
+            paused={false}
+            onEnded={noop}
+          />
+        );
+      case 'text':
+        return (
+          <TextParticleView
+            particle={particle}
+            streamPath={containerPath}
+            paused
+            onEnded={noop}
+          />
+        );
+      case 'task':
+        return (
+          <TaskParticleView
+            particle={particle}
+            containerPath={containerPath}
+            paused
+            onEnded={noop}
+          />
+        );
+      default:
+        return (
+          <FallbackParticleView particle={particle} networkId={networkId} />
+        );
+    }
+  })();
+
+  return (
+    <div className="bg-background min-h-0 flex-1 [--stream-safe-top:2rem] [--stream-safe-bottom:2rem]">
+      {content}
+    </div>
+  );
+}
+
 function InaccessibleParticle() {
   const navigate = useNavigate();
   const queryClient = useQueryClient();

js/desktop/src/features/particles/playback-page-indicator.tsx

@@ -77,10 +77,10 @@ export function PlaybackPageIndicator({
                     className="group relative block h-3 w-full"
                   >
                     {/* Dim track */}
-                    <div className="absolute inset-x-0 bottom-0 h-[3px] bg-white/30 transition-all group-hover:h-1.5" />
+                    <div className="bg-muted-foreground/30 absolute inset-x-0 bottom-0 h-[3px] transition-all group-hover:h-1.5" />
                     {/* Fill */}
                     <div
-                      className="absolute left-0 bottom-0 h-[3px] bg-white/90 transition-all group-hover:h-1.5"
+                      className="bg-foreground absolute bottom-0 left-0 h-[3px] transition-all group-hover:h-1.5"
                       style={{
                         width:
                           i < current
@@ -107,7 +107,7 @@ export function PlaybackPageIndicator({
         )}
       </div>
       {paginated && showTracks && current >= 0 && (
-        <div className="pointer-events-none pt-1 text-center text-[10px] font-medium tabular-nums tracking-wide text-white/40">
+        <div className="text-muted-foreground pointer-events-none pt-1 text-center text-[10px] font-medium tabular-nums tracking-wide">
           {current + 1} / {total}
         </div>
       )}
@@ -141,7 +141,7 @@ function GhostStub({
       className="group relative block h-3 w-2 shrink-0"
       aria-label="Jump to adjacent page"
     >
-      <div className="absolute inset-x-0 bottom-0 h-[3px] bg-white/15 transition-all group-hover:h-1.5 group-hover:bg-white/40" />
+      <div className="bg-muted-foreground/20 group-hover:bg-muted-foreground/40 absolute inset-x-0 bottom-0 h-[3px] transition-all group-hover:h-1.5" />
     </button>
   );
 }
@@ -166,7 +166,7 @@ function SegmentPresenceAvatars({
               className={
                 onlineHumanIds?.has(human.humanId)
                   ? 'ring-2 ring-green-500'
-                  : 'ring-1 ring-black/50'
+                  : 'ring-1 ring-background'
               }
               avatarObjectId={human.avatarObjectId}
               initials={human.emailPrefix.slice(0, 2).toUpperCase()}
@@ -178,7 +178,9 @@ function SegmentPresenceAvatars({
         </Tooltip>
       ))}
       {overflow > 0 && (
-        <span className="text-[10px] text-white/70 pl-1">+{overflow}</span>
+        <span className="text-muted-foreground pl-1 text-[10px]">
+          +{overflow}
+        </span>
       )}
     </div>
   );

js/desktop/src/features/particles/reaction-bar.tsx

@@ -77,12 +77,12 @@ export function ReactionBar({
                 className={cn(
                   'flex items-center gap-1 rounded-full px-2 py-0.5 text-xs backdrop-blur-sm transition-colors',
                   isMine
-                    ? 'bg-white/20 ring-1 ring-white/40'
-                    : 'bg-black/40 hover:bg-black/50',
+                    ? 'bg-primary/15 text-foreground ring-1 ring-primary/40'
+                    : 'bg-card/70 text-foreground border border-border hover:bg-accent',
                 )}
               >
                 <span className="text-sm">{emoji}</span>
-                <span className="text-white/80">{reactors.length}</span>
+                <span className="text-muted-foreground">{reactors.length}</span>
               </button>
             </TooltipTrigger>
             <TooltipContent side="left" className="text-xs">
@@ -109,8 +109,8 @@ export function ReactionBar({
                 className={cn(
                   'flex max-w-[200px] items-center gap-1.5 rounded-full py-0.5 pl-0.5 pr-2.5 text-xs backdrop-blur-sm transition-colors',
                   isMine
-                    ? 'bg-white/20 ring-1 ring-white/40'
-                    : 'bg-black/40 hover:bg-black/50',
+                    ? 'bg-primary/15 text-foreground ring-1 ring-primary/40'
+                    : 'bg-card/70 text-foreground border border-border hover:bg-accent',
                 )}
               >
                 <HumanAvatar
@@ -118,11 +118,11 @@ export function ReactionBar({
                   className="shrink-0"
                   avatarObjectId={firstReactor.avatarObjectId}
                   initials={firstReactor.initials}
-                  fallbackClassName="bg-white/15 text-[9px] font-medium text-white"
+                  fallbackClassName="bg-muted text-muted-foreground text-[9px] font-medium"
                 />
-                <span className="truncate text-white/90">{text}</span>
+                <span className="truncate text-foreground">{text}</span>
                 {reactors.length > 1 && (
-                  <span className="shrink-0 text-white/60">
+                  <span className="text-muted-foreground shrink-0">
                     {reactors.length}
                   </span>
                 )}
@@ -154,7 +154,7 @@ export function ReactionBar({
 
       {/* Picker / actions */}
       {expanded ? (
-        <div className="flex flex-col items-center gap-0.5 rounded-full bg-black/40 px-0.5 py-1.5 backdrop-blur-sm">
+        <div className="bg-card/80 border-border flex flex-col items-center gap-0.5 rounded-full border px-0.5 py-1.5 backdrop-blur-sm">
           {REACTION_EMOJIS.map((emoji) => {
             if (activeEmojis.includes(emoji)) return null;
             return (
@@ -164,7 +164,7 @@ export function ReactionBar({
                   e.stopPropagation();
                   handleToggle(emoji);
                 }}
-                className="rounded-full px-0.5 py-1 text-sm transition-colors hover:bg-white/15"
+                className="hover:bg-accent rounded-full px-0.5 py-1 text-sm transition-colors"
               >
                 {emoji}
               </button>
@@ -175,9 +175,9 @@ export function ReactionBar({
               e.stopPropagation();
               setExpanded(false);
             }}
-            className="flex size-5 items-center justify-center rounded-full transition-colors hover:bg-white/15"
+            className="hover:bg-accent flex size-5 items-center justify-center rounded-full transition-colors"
           >
-            <X className="size-3 text-white/60" />
+            <X className="text-muted-foreground size-3" />
           </button>
         </div>
       ) : (
@@ -189,14 +189,14 @@ export function ReactionBar({
                   e.stopPropagation();
                   onOpenTextReaction();
                 }}
-                className="flex size-6 items-center justify-center rounded-full bg-black/40 backdrop-blur-sm transition-colors hover:bg-black/50"
+                className="bg-card/70 border-border hover:bg-accent flex size-6 items-center justify-center rounded-full border backdrop-blur-sm transition-colors"
               >
-                <Type className="size-3 text-white/60" />
+                <Type className="text-muted-foreground size-3" />
               </button>
             </TooltipTrigger>
             <TooltipContent side="left" className="text-xs">
               Quick reply{' '}
-              <kbd className="ml-1 rounded bg-white/10 px-1 font-mono text-[10px]">
+              <kbd className="bg-muted ml-1 rounded px-1 font-mono text-[10px]">
                 R
               </kbd>
             </TooltipContent>
@@ -206,9 +206,9 @@ export function ReactionBar({
               e.stopPropagation();
               setExpanded(true);
             }}
-            className="flex size-6 items-center justify-center rounded-full bg-black/40 backdrop-blur-sm transition-colors hover:bg-black/50"
+            className="bg-card/70 border-border hover:bg-accent flex size-6 items-center justify-center rounded-full border backdrop-blur-sm transition-colors"
           >
-            <Plus className="size-3 text-white/60" />
+            <Plus className="text-muted-foreground size-3" />
           </button>
         </div>
       )}

js/desktop/src/features/particles/rename-stream-overlay.tsx

@@ -4,18 +4,18 @@ import { Input } from '@/components/ui/input';
 import { Button } from '@/components/ui/button';
 import { KeyHint } from '@/components/key-hint';
 import { updateParticleProperties } from '@/lib/firestore-particles';
-import { particlePath, toFirestoreDocPath } from '@/lib/particle-path';
+import { toFirestoreDocPath, type ParticlePath } from '@/lib/particle-path';
 import type { Particle } from '@/api/types';
 import { useSuspendPlayback } from '@/hooks/use-suspend-playback';
 
 interface RenameStreamOverlayProps {
-  networkId: string;
+  streamPath: ParticlePath;
   streamParticle: Particle & { type: 'stream' };
   onClose: () => void;
 }
 
 export function RenameStreamOverlay({
-  networkId,
+  streamPath,
   streamParticle,
   onClose,
 }: RenameStreamOverlayProps) {
@@ -32,15 +32,13 @@ export function RenameStreamOverlay({
     if (!canSave) return;
     setSaving(true);
     try {
-      const docPath = toFirestoreDocPath(
-        particlePath(networkId, [streamParticle.id]),
-      );
+      const docPath = toFirestoreDocPath(streamPath);
       await updateParticleProperties<'stream'>(docPath, { name: trimmed });
       onClose();
     } finally {
       setSaving(false);
     }
-  }, [canSave, networkId, onClose, streamParticle.id, trimmed]);
+  }, [canSave, streamPath, onClose, trimmed]);
 
   useEffect(() => {
     const handler = (e: KeyboardEvent) => {
@@ -58,17 +56,17 @@ export function RenameStreamOverlay({
   return createPortal(
     <div className="fixed inset-0 z-[100]">
       <div
-        className="absolute inset-0 bg-black/60 backdrop-blur-sm"
+        className="absolute inset-0 bg-scrim/60 backdrop-blur-sm"
         onClick={onClose}
       />
-      <div className="absolute left-1/2 top-1/2 w-full max-w-sm -translate-x-1/2 -translate-y-1/2 rounded-2xl border border-white/10 bg-white/5 p-6 shadow-2xl backdrop-blur-xl">
+      <div className="bg-popover/95 text-popover-foreground border-border absolute left-1/2 top-1/2 w-full max-w-sm -translate-x-1/2 -translate-y-1/2 rounded-2xl border p-6 shadow-2xl backdrop-blur-xl">
         <div className="mb-4 flex items-center justify-between">
-          <h2 className="text-sm font-semibold text-white/70">Rename stream</h2>
+          <h2 className="text-sm font-semibold">Rename stream</h2>
           <KeyHint
             keys="Esc"
             onClick={onClose}
             title="Close (or press Esc)"
-            className="text-xs text-white/30"
+            className="text-muted-foreground text-xs"
           >
             to close
           </KeyHint>
@@ -87,7 +85,6 @@ export function RenameStreamOverlay({
             }
           }}
           placeholder="Stream name"
-          className="border-white/10 bg-white/5 text-white placeholder-white/30 focus-visible:border-white/30 focus-visible:ring-0"
         />
 
         <div className="mt-4 flex items-center justify-end gap-2">

js/desktop/src/features/particles/stream-bottom-bar.tsx

@@ -0,0 +1,141 @@
+import { cn } from '@/lib/utils';
+import { PlaybackPageIndicator } from '@/features/particles/playback-page-indicator';
+import { VideoAudioToggle } from '@/components/video-audio-toggle';
+import { KeyHint } from '@/components/key-hint';
+import { useComposeIntentStore } from '@/stores/compose-intent-store';
+import type { HumanPresence } from '@/hooks/use-presence-positions';
+
+export function BottomBar({
+  visible,
+  total,
+  current,
+  progress,
+  onGoTo,
+  presenceBySegment,
+  onlineHumanIds,
+  exitRemainingMs,
+  onOpenKeybindings,
+  onOpenHuddle,
+  onExit,
+}: {
+  visible: boolean;
+  total: number;
+  current: number;
+  progress: number;
+  onGoTo: (index: number) => void;
+  presenceBySegment: Map<number, HumanPresence[]>;
+  onlineHumanIds: Set<string>;
+  exitRemainingMs: number | null;
+  onOpenKeybindings: () => void;
+  onOpenHuddle: () => void;
+  onExit: () => void;
+}) {
+  return (
+    <div
+      className={cn(
+        'absolute inset-x-0 bottom-0 z-10 transition-all duration-300',
+        visible
+          ? 'opacity-100 translate-y-0'
+          : 'opacity-0 translate-y-2 pointer-events-none',
+      )}
+    >
+      {/* Presence avatars — above the blurred background */}
+      <PlaybackPageIndicator
+        total={total}
+        current={current}
+        progress={progress}
+        onGoTo={onGoTo}
+        presenceBySegment={presenceBySegment}
+        onlineHumanIds={onlineHumanIds}
+        layer="avatars"
+      />
+      {/* Blurred background container — tracks + controls */}
+      <div className="pb-3">
+        <PlaybackPageIndicator
+          total={total}
+          current={current}
+          progress={progress}
+          onGoTo={onGoTo}
+          layer="tracks"
+        />
+        <div className="flex items-center justify-center px-3 pt-2 gap-2">
+          {exitRemainingMs !== null && (
+            <div className="flex justify-center">
+              <span className="bg-card/70 text-muted-foreground border-border rounded-full border px-2 text-xs backdrop-blur-sm">
+                Closing in {Math.ceil(exitRemainingMs / 1000)}s
+              </span>
+            </div>
+          )}
+          <StreamViewControls
+            showEscape
+            onOpenKeybindings={onOpenKeybindings}
+            onOpenHuddle={onOpenHuddle}
+            onExit={onExit}
+          />
+        </div>
+      </div>
+    </div>
+  );
+}
+
+export function StreamViewControls({
+  showEscape,
+  onOpenKeybindings,
+  onOpenHuddle,
+  onExit,
+}: {
+  showEscape?: boolean;
+  onOpenKeybindings: () => void;
+  onOpenHuddle: () => void;
+  onExit: () => void;
+}) {
+  const requestIntent = useComposeIntentStore((s) => s.request);
+  return (
+    <div className="text-muted-foreground flex items-center gap-4 text-sm">
+      {showEscape && (
+        <KeyHint
+          keys="Esc"
+          onClick={onExit}
+          title="Back to network (or press Esc)"
+        >
+          back
+        </KeyHint>
+      )}
+      <VideoAudioToggle />
+      <KeyHint
+        keys="Hold `"
+        onClick={() => requestIntent('record')}
+        title="Reply with a recording (or hold `)"
+      >
+        to reply
+      </KeyHint>
+      <KeyHint
+        keys="T"
+        onClick={() => requestIntent('text')}
+        title="Reply with text (or press T)"
+      >
+        text
+      </KeyHint>
+      <KeyHint
+        keys="D"
+        onClick={() => requestIntent('task')}
+        title="Add a task (or press D)"
+      >
+        task
+      </KeyHint>
+      <KeyHint
+        keys="H"
+        onClick={onOpenHuddle}
+        title="Start a huddle (or press H)"
+      >
+        huddle
+      </KeyHint>
+      <KeyHint
+        keys="?"
+        onClick={onOpenKeybindings}
+        title="Show all shortcuts"
+        aria-label="Show keyboard shortcuts"
+      />
+    </div>
+  );
+}

js/desktop/src/features/particles/stream-context-menu.tsx

@@ -7,10 +7,10 @@ import {
 import { CircleCheckBig, CircleDot } from 'lucide-react';
 import { updateStreamStatus } from '@/lib/firestore-particles';
 import { toFirestoreDocPath, particlePath } from '@/lib/particle-path';
-import type { StreamParticle } from '@/hooks/use-stream-particles';
+import { isStreamOpen, type Particle } from '@/api/types';
 
 interface StreamContextMenuProps {
-  particle: StreamParticle;
+  particle: Extract<Particle, { type: 'stream' }>;
   networkId: string;
   children: React.ReactNode;
 }
@@ -20,7 +20,7 @@ export function StreamContextMenu({
   networkId,
   children,
 }: StreamContextMenuProps) {
-  const isOpen = particle.status === 'open';
+  const isOpen = isStreamOpen(particle);
   const docPath = toFirestoreDocPath(particlePath(networkId, [particle.id]));
 
   const toggleStatus = async () => {

js/desktop/src/features/particles/stream-list-sidebar.tsx

@@ -0,0 +1,231 @@
+import { useEffect, useRef } from 'react';
+import { CircleCheck, FileText, Image, List, Mic, Video } from 'lucide-react';
+import { isParticleDeleted, type Human, type Particle } from '@/api/types';
+import { cn } from '@/lib/utils';
+import { useNetwork } from '@/hooks/use-networks';
+import { resolveHumanDisplay } from '@/lib/humans';
+import { RelativeTimestamp } from '@/components/relative-timestamp';
+import { HumanAvatar } from '@/components/human-avatar';
+import { KeyHint } from '@/components/key-hint';
+import { ScrollArea } from '@/components/ui/scroll-area';
+
+interface StreamListSidebarProps {
+  items: Particle[];
+  networkId: string;
+  currentIndex: number;
+  onSelect: (index: number) => void;
+  onToggle: () => void;
+}
+
+/**
+ * Browse-mode panel beside the stream: a chat-like timeline of every
+ * particle. Selecting a message plays it in the immersive stream view;
+ * nothing auto-advances.
+ */
+export function StreamListSidebar({
+  items,
+  networkId,
+  currentIndex,
+  onSelect,
+  onToggle,
+}: StreamListSidebarProps) {
+  const network = useNetwork(networkId);
+  const rowRefs = useRef<Array<HTMLDivElement | null>>([]);
+
+  useEffect(() => {
+    if (currentIndex >= 0) {
+      rowRefs.current[currentIndex]?.scrollIntoView({ block: 'nearest' });
+    }
+  }, [currentIndex]);
+
+  return (
+    <aside className="bg-sidebar text-sidebar-foreground border-border flex w-60 shrink-0 flex-col overflow-hidden border-l">
+      <div className="border-border flex shrink-0 items-center gap-2 border-b px-4 py-3">
+        <List className="text-muted-foreground size-3.5" />
+        <span className="mr-auto truncate text-sm font-medium">
+          {items.length} messages
+        </span>
+        <KeyHint
+          keys="L"
+          onClick={onToggle}
+          title="Hide list (or press L)"
+          className="text-muted-foreground text-xs"
+        >
+          to close
+        </KeyHint>
+      </div>
+      <ScrollArea className="min-h-0 flex-1">
+        <div className="flex flex-col gap-0.5 px-2 py-2">
+          {items.map((item, index) => (
+            <div
+              key={item.id}
+              ref={(el) => {
+                rowRefs.current[index] = el;
+              }}
+            >
+              <ChatRow
+                particle={item}
+                humans={network?.humans}
+                isSelected={index === currentIndex}
+                onClick={() => onSelect(index)}
+              />
+            </div>
+          ))}
+          {items.length === 0 && (
+            <p className="text-muted-foreground px-2 py-8 text-center text-sm">
+              No particles in this stream yet.
+            </p>
+          )}
+        </div>
+      </ScrollArea>
+    </aside>
+  );
+}
+
+function ChatRow({
+  particle,
+  humans,
+  isSelected,
+  onClick,
+}: {
+  particle: Particle;
+  humans: Human[] | undefined;
+  isSelected: boolean;
+  onClick: () => void;
+}) {
+  const sender = resolveHumanDisplay(particle.created_by_human_id, humans);
+
+  return (
+    <div
+      role="button"
+      tabIndex={0}
+      onClick={onClick}
+      // Enter only — Space is reserved for play/pause in the stream view.
+      onKeyDown={(e) => {
+        if (e.key === 'Enter') onClick();
+      }}
+      className={cn(
+        'flex cursor-pointer items-start gap-2.5 rounded-md px-2 py-2 text-left transition-colors',
+        isSelected ? 'bg-accent' : 'hover:bg-accent/50',
+      )}
+    >
+      <HumanAvatar
+        size="sm"
+        className="mt-0.5 shrink-0"
+        initials={sender.initials}
+        avatarObjectId={sender.avatarObjectId}
+        fallbackClassName="bg-muted text-muted-foreground text-[10px] font-medium"
+      />
+      <div className="min-w-0 flex-1 overflow-hidden">
+        <div className="flex items-baseline justify-between gap-2">
+          <span className="truncate text-xs font-semibold">
+            {sender.displayName}
+          </span>
+          <span className="text-muted-foreground shrink-0 text-[10px]">
+            <RelativeTimestamp date={particle.created_at} />
+          </span>
+        </div>
+        <ChatRowContent particle={particle} />
+      </div>
+    </div>
+  );
+}
+
+function ChatRowContent({ particle }: { particle: Particle }) {
+  if (isParticleDeleted(particle)) {
+    return (
+      <p className="text-muted-foreground text-xs italic">
+        This particle was deleted
+      </p>
+    );
+  }
+
+  switch (particle.type) {
+    case 'text':
+      return (
+        <p className="text-muted-foreground line-clamp-2 whitespace-pre-line text-xs leading-relaxed [overflow-wrap:anywhere]">
+          {particle.properties.content}
+        </p>
+      );
+    case 'media': {
+      const mime = particle.properties.mime_type;
+      const transcript = particle.properties.transcript?.transcript;
+      const isVideo = mime.startsWith('video/');
+      const isAudio = mime.startsWith('audio/');
+      const isImage = mime.startsWith('image/');
+      const Icon = isVideo ? Video : isAudio ? Mic : isImage ? Image : Video;
+      const label = isVideo
+        ? 'Video clip'
+        : isAudio
+          ? 'Voice note'
+          : isImage
+            ? 'Photo'
+            : 'Media';
+      const durationSec = Math.round(particle.properties.duration_ms / 1000);
+      const duration =
+        durationSec > 0
+          ? ` · ${Math.floor(durationSec / 60)}:${String(durationSec % 60).padStart(2, '0')}`
+          : '';
+      return (
+        <div className="flex flex-col gap-0.5">
+          <span className="text-muted-foreground flex items-center gap-1.5 text-xs">
+            <Icon className="text-muted-foreground size-3.5 shrink-0" />
+            {label}
+            {duration}
+          </span>
+          {transcript && (
+            <p className="text-muted-foreground line-clamp-2 text-xs leading-relaxed">
+              {transcript}
+            </p>
+          )}
+        </div>
+      );
+    }
+    case 'file':
+      return (
+        <span className="text-muted-foreground flex items-center gap-1.5 text-xs">
+          <FileText className="text-muted-foreground size-3.5 shrink-0" />
+          <span className="truncate">{particle.properties.filename}</span>
+        </span>
+      );
+    case 'task': {
+      const { title, done, checklist = [] } = particle.properties;
+      const doneCount = checklist.filter((item) => item.done).length;
+      return (
+        <div className="flex flex-col gap-0.5">
+          <span className="text-muted-foreground flex items-center gap-1.5 text-xs">
+            <CircleCheck
+              className={cn(
+                'size-3.5 shrink-0',
+                done
+                  ? 'text-emerald-600 dark:text-emerald-400'
+                  : 'text-muted-foreground',
+              )}
+            />
+            <span
+              className={cn(
+                'truncate',
+                done && 'text-muted-foreground line-through',
+              )}
+            >
+              {title}
+            </span>
+          </span>
+          {checklist.length > 0 && (
+            <span className="text-muted-foreground pl-5 text-[10px]">
+              {doneCount} / {checklist.length} subtasks
+            </span>
+          )}
+        </div>
+      );
+    }
+    case 'paper':
+      return (
+        <p className="text-muted-foreground truncate text-xs">
+          {particle.properties.title}
+        </p>
+      );
+    default:
+      return <p className="text-muted-foreground text-xs">{particle.type}</p>;
+  }
+}

js/desktop/src/features/particles/stream-members-overlay.tsx

@@ -10,7 +10,7 @@ import {
   parseVisibleTo,
 } from '@/lib/stream-visibility';
 import { updateParticleVisibleTo } from '@/lib/firestore-particles';
-import { particlePath, toFirestoreDocPath } from '@/lib/particle-path';
+import { toFirestoreDocPath, type ParticlePath } from '@/lib/particle-path';
 import { useNetwork } from '@/hooks/use-networks';
 import { cn, getInitials } from '@/lib/utils';
 import { resolveHumanDisplay } from '@/lib/humans';
@@ -19,6 +19,7 @@ import { useSuspendPlayback } from '@/hooks/use-suspend-playback';
 
 interface StreamMembersOverlayProps {
   networkId: string;
+  streamPath: ParticlePath;
   streamParticle: Particle & { type: 'stream' };
   isCreator: boolean;
   onClose: () => void;
@@ -26,6 +27,7 @@ interface StreamMembersOverlayProps {
 
 export function StreamMembersOverlay({
   networkId,
+  streamPath,
   streamParticle,
   isCreator,
   onClose,
@@ -40,10 +42,7 @@ export function StreamMembersOverlay({
     [streamParticle.visible_to, networkId],
   );
 
-  const docPath = useMemo(
-    () => toFirestoreDocPath(particlePath(networkId, [streamParticle.id])),
-    [networkId, streamParticle.id],
-  );
+  const docPath = useMemo(() => toFirestoreDocPath(streamPath), [streamPath]);
 
   const memberIds =
     visibility.mode === 'network'
@@ -98,18 +97,18 @@ export function StreamMembersOverlay({
   return createPortal(
     <div className="fixed inset-0 z-[100]">
       <div
-        className="absolute inset-0 bg-black/60 backdrop-blur-sm"
+        className="bg-scrim/60 absolute inset-0 backdrop-blur-sm"
         onClick={onClose}
       />
-      <div className="absolute left-1/2 top-1/2 flex max-h-[80vh] w-full max-w-sm -translate-x-1/2 -translate-y-1/2 flex-col overflow-hidden rounded-2xl border border-white/10 bg-white/5 p-6 shadow-2xl backdrop-blur-xl">
+      <div className="bg-popover/95 text-popover-foreground border-border absolute left-1/2 top-1/2 flex max-h-[80vh] w-full max-w-sm -translate-x-1/2 -translate-y-1/2 flex-col overflow-hidden rounded-2xl border p-6 shadow-2xl backdrop-blur-xl">
         {/* Header */}
         <div className="mb-4 flex items-center justify-between">
-          <h2 className="text-sm font-semibold text-white/70">Members</h2>
+          <h2 className="text-sm font-semibold">Members</h2>
           <KeyHint
             keys="Esc"
             onClick={onClose}
             title="Close (or press Esc)"
-            className="text-xs text-white/30"
+            className="text-muted-foreground text-xs"
           >
             to close
           </KeyHint>
@@ -117,11 +116,11 @@ export function StreamMembersOverlay({
 
         {/* Visibility */}
         <section className="mb-4">
-          <h3 className="mb-2 text-[10px] font-medium uppercase tracking-widest text-white/30">
+          <h3 className="text-muted-foreground mb-2 text-[10px] font-medium uppercase tracking-widest">
             Visibility
           </h3>
           {isCreator ? (
-            <div className="grid grid-cols-2 gap-1 rounded-lg bg-white/5 p-1">
+            <div className="bg-muted grid grid-cols-2 gap-1 rounded-lg p-1">
               <VisibilityPill
                 active={visibility.mode === 'network'}
                 icon={<Globe className="size-3.5" />}
@@ -136,15 +135,15 @@ export function StreamMembersOverlay({
               />
             </div>
           ) : (
-            <div className="flex items-center gap-2 text-sm text-white/70">
+            <div className="text-foreground flex items-center gap-2 text-sm">
               {visibility.mode === 'network' ? (
                 <>
-                  <Globe className="size-3.5 text-white/40" />
+                  <Globe className="text-muted-foreground size-3.5" />
                   <span>Everyone in {network?.name ?? 'network'}</span>
                 </>
               ) : (
                 <>
-                  <Lock className="size-3.5 text-white/40" />
+                  <Lock className="text-muted-foreground size-3.5" />
                   <span>{memberIds.length} specific people</span>
                 </>
               )}
@@ -154,9 +153,11 @@ export function StreamMembersOverlay({
 
         {/* Member list */}
         <section className="flex min-h-0 flex-1 flex-col">
-          <h3 className="mb-2 text-[10px] font-medium uppercase tracking-widest text-white/30">
+          <h3 className="text-muted-foreground mb-2 text-[10px] font-medium uppercase tracking-widest">
             {visibility.mode === 'network' ? 'Has access' : 'People'}{' '}
-            <span className="ml-1 text-white/20">{memberIds.length}</span>
+            <span className="text-muted-foreground ml-1">
+              {memberIds.length}
+            </span>
           </h3>
           <ScrollArea className="min-h-0 flex-1">
             <ul className="flex flex-col gap-0.5 pr-2">
@@ -168,7 +169,7 @@ export function StreamMembersOverlay({
                 return (
                   <li
                     key={id}
-                    className="group flex items-center gap-2.5 rounded px-2 py-1.5 text-sm text-white/70"
+                    className="text-foreground group flex items-center gap-2.5 rounded px-2 py-1.5 text-sm"
                   >
                     <HumanAvatar
                       size="sm"
@@ -179,13 +180,13 @@ export function StreamMembersOverlay({
                     <span
                       className={cn(
                         'flex-1 truncate',
-                        !display.exists && 'italic text-white/40',
+                        !display.exists && 'text-muted-foreground italic',
                       )}
                     >
                       {display.displayName}
                     </span>
                     {isCreatorRow && (
-                      <span className="text-[10px] uppercase tracking-wider text-white/30">
+                      <span className="text-muted-foreground text-[10px] uppercase tracking-wider">
                         Creator
                       </span>
                     )}
@@ -193,7 +194,7 @@ export function StreamMembersOverlay({
                       <button
                         type="button"
                         onClick={() => removeMember(id)}
-                        className="rounded p-1 text-white/30 opacity-0 transition-opacity hover:bg-white/10 hover:text-white/70 group-hover:opacity-100"
+                        className="text-muted-foreground hover:bg-accent hover:text-foreground rounded p-1 opacity-0 transition-opacity group-hover:opacity-100"
                         aria-label={`Remove ${display.displayName}`}
                       >
                         <X className="size-3.5" />
@@ -210,8 +211,8 @@ export function StreamMembersOverlay({
         {isCreator &&
           visibility.mode === 'custom' &&
           availableToAdd.length > 0 && (
-            <section className="mt-4 border-t border-white/5 pt-4">
-              <h3 className="mb-2 flex items-center gap-1.5 text-[10px] font-medium uppercase tracking-widest text-white/30">
+            <section className="border-border mt-4 border-t pt-4">
+              <h3 className="text-muted-foreground mb-2 flex items-center gap-1.5 text-[10px] font-medium uppercase tracking-widest">
                 <UserPlus className="size-3" />
                 Add people
               </h3>
@@ -223,7 +224,7 @@ export function StreamMembersOverlay({
                         type="button"
                         onClick={() => addMember(human.id)}
                         className={cn(
-                          'flex w-full items-center gap-2.5 rounded px-2 py-1.5 text-left text-sm text-white/70 transition-colors hover:bg-white/5',
+                          'text-foreground hover:bg-accent flex w-full items-center gap-2.5 rounded px-2 py-1.5 text-left text-sm transition-colors',
                         )}
                       >
                         <HumanAvatar
@@ -235,7 +236,7 @@ export function StreamMembersOverlay({
                         <span className="flex-1 truncate">
                           {human.email_prefix}
                         </span>
-                        <UserPlus className="size-3.5 text-white/30" />
+                        <UserPlus className="text-muted-foreground size-3.5" />
                       </button>
                     </li>
                   ))}
@@ -247,7 +248,7 @@ export function StreamMembersOverlay({
         {isCreator &&
           visibility.mode === 'custom' &&
           availableToAdd.length === 0 && (
-            <p className="mt-4 text-center text-xs text-white/30">
+            <p className="text-muted-foreground mt-4 text-center text-xs">
               <Users className="mr-1 inline size-3" />
               Everyone in the network is already a member
             </p>
@@ -276,8 +277,8 @@ function VisibilityPill({
       className={cn(
         'flex items-center justify-center gap-1.5 rounded-md px-2 py-1.5 text-xs transition-colors',
         active
-          ? 'bg-white/10 text-white/90'
-          : 'text-white/50 hover:text-white/80',
+          ? 'bg-background text-foreground shadow-sm'
+          : 'text-muted-foreground hover:text-foreground',
       )}
     >
       {icon}

js/desktop/src/features/particles/stream-top-bar.tsx

@@ -1,9 +1,7 @@
 import { useState } from 'react';
-import { useNavigate } from 'react-router-dom';
 import { useAuthStore } from '@/stores/auth-store';
 import { apiClient } from '@/api/client';
-import { isParticleDeleted, type Particle } from '@/api/types';
-import { particlePath, toFirestoreDocPath } from '@/lib/particle-path';
+import { isParticleDeleted, isStreamOpen, type Particle } from '@/api/types';
 import { AvatarGroup } from '@/components/ui/avatar';
 import { HumanAvatar } from '@/components/human-avatar';
 import {
@@ -20,20 +18,21 @@ import {
   DropdownMenuTrigger,
 } from '@/components/ui/dropdown-menu';
 import {
-  Settings,
-  CircleCheckBig,
-  CircleDot,
   EllipsisVertical,
   Pencil,
   Lock,
   Globe,
   Trash2,
+  CircleCheckBig,
+  CircleDot,
 } from 'lucide-react';
 import { updateStreamStatus } from '@/lib/firestore-particles';
+import { toFirestoreDocPath, type ParticlePath } from '@/lib/particle-path';
 import { RenameStreamOverlay } from '@/features/particles/rename-stream-overlay';
 import { DeleteParticleOverlay } from '@/features/particles/delete-particle-overlay';
 import { StreamMembersOverlay } from '@/features/particles/stream-members-overlay';
 import { parseVisibleTo } from '@/lib/stream-visibility';
+import { getParticleDisplayName } from '@/lib/particle-display';
 import {
   Breadcrumb,
   BreadcrumbItem,
@@ -48,32 +47,20 @@ import { resolveHumanDisplay } from '@/lib/humans';
 import { platform } from '@/lib/platform';
 import { requireDesktop } from '@/lib/platform/desktop-only';
 
-function getParticleDisplayName(particle: Particle): string {
-  switch (particle.type) {
-    case 'stream':
-    case 'folder':
-      return particle.properties.name;
-    case 'quest':
-      return particle.properties.title;
-    case 'paper':
-      return particle.properties.title;
-    case 'file':
-      return particle.properties.filename;
-    case 'text':
-      return particle.properties.content.slice(0, 30);
-    case 'media':
-      return particle.type;
-  }
-}
-
 interface TopBarProps {
   networkId: string;
   particle: Particle | null;
   streamParticle: Particle & { type: 'stream' };
+  /** Resolved path of the stream — may be nested under a container. */
+  streamPath: ParticlePath;
 }
 
-export function TopBar({ networkId, particle, streamParticle }: TopBarProps) {
-  const navigate = useNavigate();
+export function TopBar({
+  networkId,
+  particle,
+  streamParticle,
+  streamPath,
+}: TopBarProps) {
   const network = useNetwork(networkId);
   const userId = useAuthStore((s) => s.user?.id);
   const isCreator = !!userId && userId === streamParticle.created_by_human_id;
@@ -105,7 +92,7 @@ export function TopBar({ networkId, particle, streamParticle }: TopBarProps) {
     <div className="drag-region flex flex-row px-2 gap-1 items-center">
       <WindowControls />
 
-      <Breadcrumb className="no-drag rounded-full bg-black/30 backdrop-blur-sm px-3 py-1 mx-auto">
+      <Breadcrumb className="no-drag bg-card/70 border-border mx-auto rounded-full border px-3 py-1 backdrop-blur-sm">
         <BreadcrumbList>
           {streamParticle && (
             <>
@@ -152,7 +139,7 @@ export function TopBar({ networkId, particle, streamParticle }: TopBarProps) {
                       size="sm"
                       avatarObjectId={display.avatarObjectId}
                       initials={display.initials}
-                      fallbackClassName="bg-red-500/30 text-[8px] text-red-200"
+                      fallbackClassName="bg-red-500/30 text-[8px] text-red-700 dark:text-red-200"
                     />
                   </TooltipTrigger>
                   <TooltipContent>{display.email}</TooltipContent>
@@ -160,12 +147,14 @@ export function TopBar({ networkId, particle, streamParticle }: TopBarProps) {
               );
             })}
           </AvatarGroup>
-          <span className="text-xs font-medium text-red-200">Join</span>
+          <span className="text-xs font-medium text-red-600 dark:text-red-200">
+            Join
+          </span>
         </button>
       )}
 
-      {streamParticle.status === 'closed' && (
-        <span className="no-drag flex items-center gap-1 rounded-full bg-white/10 px-2 py-0.5 text-xs text-muted-foreground backdrop-blur-sm">
+      {!isStreamOpen(streamParticle) && (
+        <span className="no-drag text-muted-foreground bg-muted border-border flex items-center gap-1 rounded-full border px-2 py-0.5 text-xs backdrop-blur-sm">
           <CircleCheckBig className="size-3" />
           Closed
         </span>
@@ -188,18 +177,22 @@ export function TopBar({ networkId, particle, streamParticle }: TopBarProps) {
           </Button>
         </DropdownMenuTrigger>
         <DropdownMenuContent align="end">
+          {isCreator && (
+            <DropdownMenuItem onSelect={() => setRenameOpen(true)}>
+              <Pencil className="size-4" />
+              Rename stream
+            </DropdownMenuItem>
+          )}
           <DropdownMenuItem
             onSelect={async () => {
-              const docPath = toFirestoreDocPath(
-                particlePath(networkId, [streamParticle.id]),
-              );
+              const docPath = toFirestoreDocPath(streamPath);
               await updateStreamStatus(
                 docPath,
-                streamParticle.status === 'open' ? 'closed' : 'open',
+                isStreamOpen(streamParticle) ? 'closed' : 'open',
               );
             }}
           >
-            {streamParticle.status === 'open' ? (
+            {isStreamOpen(streamParticle) ? (
               <>
                 <CircleCheckBig className="size-4" />
                 Close stream
@@ -211,12 +204,6 @@ export function TopBar({ networkId, particle, streamParticle }: TopBarProps) {
               </>
             )}
           </DropdownMenuItem>
-          {isCreator && (
-            <DropdownMenuItem onSelect={() => setRenameOpen(true)}>
-              <Pencil className="size-4" />
-              Rename stream
-            </DropdownMenuItem>
-          )}
           {canDeleteParticle && (
             <DropdownMenuItem
               onSelect={() => setDeleteOpen(true)}
@@ -226,16 +213,12 @@ export function TopBar({ networkId, particle, streamParticle }: TopBarProps) {
               Delete particle
             </DropdownMenuItem>
           )}
-          <DropdownMenuItem onSelect={() => navigate('/settings')}>
-            <Settings className="size-4" />
-            Settings
-          </DropdownMenuItem>
         </DropdownMenuContent>
       </DropdownMenu>
 
       {renameOpen && isCreator && (
         <RenameStreamOverlay
-          networkId={networkId}
+          streamPath={streamPath}
           streamParticle={streamParticle}
           onClose={() => setRenameOpen(false)}
         />
@@ -243,8 +226,7 @@ export function TopBar({ networkId, particle, streamParticle }: TopBarProps) {
 
       {deleteOpen && canDeleteParticle && particle && userId && (
         <DeleteParticleOverlay
-          networkId={networkId}
-          streamId={streamParticle.id}
+          streamPath={streamPath}
           particle={particle}
           userId={userId}
           onClose={() => setDeleteOpen(false)}
@@ -254,6 +236,7 @@ export function TopBar({ networkId, particle, streamParticle }: TopBarProps) {
       {membersOpen && (
         <StreamMembersOverlay
           networkId={networkId}
+          streamPath={streamPath}
           streamParticle={streamParticle}
           isCreator={isCreator}
           onClose={() => setMembersOpen(false)}
@@ -299,16 +282,16 @@ function MembersIndicator({
       <TooltipTrigger asChild>
         <button
           onClick={onClick}
-          className="no-drag flex items-center gap-1.5 rounded-full bg-white/5 px-2 py-1 text-xs text-white/70 backdrop-blur-sm transition-colors hover:bg-white/10"
+          className="no-drag bg-card/70 text-muted-foreground border-border hover:bg-accent flex items-center gap-1.5 rounded-full border px-2 py-1 text-xs backdrop-blur-sm transition-colors"
         >
           {isNetworkWide ? (
             <>
-              <Globe className="size-3 text-white/50" />
+              <Globe className="text-muted-foreground size-3" />
               <span>Everyone</span>
             </>
           ) : isPrivate ? (
             <>
-              <Lock className="size-3 text-white/50" />
+              <Lock className="text-muted-foreground size-3" />
               <span>Private</span>
             </>
           ) : (
@@ -325,7 +308,7 @@ function MembersIndicator({
                 ))}
               </AvatarGroup>
               {overflow > 0 && (
-                <span className="text-white/50">+{overflow}</span>
+                <span className="text-muted-foreground">+{overflow}</span>
               )}
             </>
           )}

js/desktop/src/features/particles/stream-view.tsx

@@ -6,6 +6,7 @@ import {
   useRef,
 } from 'react';
 import { useNavigate } from 'react-router-dom';
+import { Play } from 'lucide-react';
 import { useAuthStore } from '@/stores/auth-store';
 import { apiClient } from '@/api/client';
 import { isParticleDeleted, type Particle } from '@/api/types';
@@ -19,17 +20,20 @@ import {
   ComposeOverlay,
   type ComposeStep,
 } from '@/features/compose/compose-overlay';
-import { useComposeIntentStore } from '@/stores/compose-intent-store';
-import { PlaybackPageIndicator } from '@/features/particles/playback-page-indicator';
 import {
   MediaParticleView,
   type MediaParticleHandle,
 } from '@/features/particles/media-particle-view';
 import { TextParticleView } from '@/features/particles/text-particle-view';
+import { TaskParticleView } from '@/features/particles/task-particle-view';
 import { FallbackParticleView } from '@/features/particles/fallback-particle-view';
 import { DeletedParticleView } from '@/features/particles/deleted-particle-view';
-import { VideoAudioToggle } from '@/components/video-audio-toggle';
-import { KeyHint } from '@/components/key-hint';
+import {
+  BottomBar,
+  StreamViewControls,
+} from '@/features/particles/stream-bottom-bar';
+import { StreamListSidebar } from '@/features/particles/stream-list-sidebar';
+import { useStreamViewMode } from '@/hooks/use-stream-view-mode';
 import { useMediaSettingsStore } from '@/stores/media-settings-store';
 import {
   KeybindingsOverlay,
@@ -51,7 +55,6 @@ import {
   type ComposingMode,
 } from '@/features/particles/stream-presence-context';
 import { ComposingIndicator } from '@/components/composing-indicator';
-import { cn } from '@/lib/utils';
 import { useMount } from 'react-use';
 import {
   usePlaybackPauseStore,
@@ -63,11 +66,29 @@ import { useStreamActionKeys } from '@/hooks/use-stream-action-keys';
 import { platform } from '@/lib/platform';
 import { requireDesktop } from '@/lib/platform/desktop-only';
 
+const noop = () => {};
+
+// Compose step → the composing-presence mode broadcast to other viewers.
+const STEP_TO_COMPOSING_MODE: Record<ComposeStep, ComposingMode | null> = {
+  idle: null,
+  submitting: null,
+  recording: 'recording',
+  typing: 'typing',
+  task: 'typing',
+  reviewing: 'typing',
+  configuring: 'typing',
+  picking: 'screen',
+};
+
 function getReactions(
   particle: Particle,
 ): Record<string, string[]> | undefined {
   if (isParticleDeleted(particle)) return undefined;
-  if (particle.type === 'media' || particle.type === 'text')
+  if (
+    particle.type === 'media' ||
+    particle.type === 'text' ||
+    particle.type === 'task'
+  )
     return particle.reactions;
   return undefined;
 }
@@ -134,6 +155,7 @@ const STREAM_VIEW_KEYBINDINGS: KeybindingGroup[] = [
     bindings: [
       { keys: ['←', '→', '↑', '↓'], description: 'Previous / next particle' },
       { keys: ['Esc'], description: 'Back to network' },
+      { keys: ['L'], description: 'Toggle list view' },
     ],
   },
   {
@@ -151,6 +173,7 @@ const STREAM_VIEW_KEYBINDINGS: KeybindingGroup[] = [
       { keys: ['Hold', '`'], description: 'Reply' },
       { keys: ['S'], description: 'Screen record' },
       { keys: ['T'], description: 'Text compose' },
+      { keys: ['D'], description: 'New task' },
       { keys: ['V'], description: 'Toggle video / audio' },
       { keys: ['H'], description: 'Join huddle' },
     ],
@@ -189,6 +212,8 @@ function StreamViewInner({ path, streamParticle }: StreamViewProps) {
     platform.autoplay.dismiss();
   });
 
+  const { mode, toggle: toggleViewMode } = useStreamViewMode();
+
   const {
     children,
     currentParticle,
@@ -198,7 +223,9 @@ function StreamViewInner({ path, streamParticle }: StreamViewProps) {
     prev,
     goTo,
     goToParticle,
-  } = useStreamPlayback(streamParticle, path);
+  } = useStreamPlayback(streamParticle, path, {
+    autoAdvanceOnNew: mode === 'player',
+  });
 
   usePrefetchAdjacentMedia(children, currentIndex);
 
@@ -258,7 +285,7 @@ function StreamViewInner({ path, streamParticle }: StreamViewProps) {
     [handleToggleReaction],
   );
 
-  const { fastPlayback } = usePlaybackKeys({ mediaRef });
+  const { fastPlayback, spacePaused, resume } = usePlaybackKeys({ mediaRef });
 
   const handleExitNavigate = useCallback(() => {
     navigate(`/${networkId}`);
@@ -271,6 +298,7 @@ function StreamViewInner({ path, streamParticle }: StreamViewProps) {
     childrenLength: children.length,
     mediaRef,
     onExit: handleExitNavigate,
+    onToggleViewMode: toggleViewMode,
   });
 
   const handleOpenHuddle = useCallback(() => {
@@ -301,16 +329,7 @@ function StreamViewInner({ path, streamParticle }: StreamViewProps) {
 
   // Broadcast composing state to other viewers
   useEffect(() => {
-    const stepToMode: Record<string, ComposingMode | null> = {
-      idle: null,
-      submitting: null,
-      recording: 'recording',
-      typing: 'typing',
-      reviewing: 'typing',
-      configuring: 'typing',
-      picking: 'screen',
-    };
-    const mode = stepToMode[composeStep] ?? null;
+    const mode = STEP_TO_COMPOSING_MODE[composeStep] ?? null;
     if (mode) {
       startComposing(mode);
     } else {
@@ -331,7 +350,12 @@ function StreamViewInner({ path, streamParticle }: StreamViewProps) {
   // Always show controls when compose is active or exit countdown is visible
   const controlsVisible = showControls || composeActive || status === 'ended';
 
-  const exitRemainingMs = useExitCountdown(status, paused, handleExitNavigate);
+  // No auto-exit while browsing in list mode.
+  const exitRemainingMs = useExitCountdown(
+    status,
+    paused || mode === 'list',
+    handleExitNavigate,
+  );
 
   // Reset progress when the particle changes.
   if (currentParticle?.id !== prevParticleId) {
@@ -357,7 +381,7 @@ function StreamViewInner({ path, streamParticle }: StreamViewProps) {
 
   if (children.length === 0) {
     return (
-      <div className="flex h-full flex-col items-center justify-center gap-4 bg-black text-white">
+      <div className="bg-background flex h-full flex-col items-center justify-center gap-4">
         <p className="text-muted-foreground text-sm">
           No particles in this stream yet
         </p>
@@ -371,14 +395,15 @@ function StreamViewInner({ path, streamParticle }: StreamViewProps) {
           networkId={networkId}
           targetPath={path}
           onActiveChange={setComposeActive}
-          disabled={streamParticle.status === 'closed'}
           onParticleCreated={handleParticleCreated}
         />
       </div>
     );
   }
 
-  // Render particle content inline
+  // Render particle content inline. In list mode the selected particle still
+  // plays, but nothing chains: reaching the end doesn't advance.
+  const handleParticleEnded = mode === 'player' ? next : noop;
   function renderParticle(particle: Particle) {
     if (isParticleDeleted(particle)) {
       return (
@@ -387,7 +412,7 @@ function StreamViewInner({ path, streamParticle }: StreamViewProps) {
           particle={particle}
           networkId={networkId}
           paused={paused}
-          onEnded={next}
+          onEnded={handleParticleEnded}
         />
       );
     }
@@ -400,7 +425,7 @@ function StreamViewInner({ path, streamParticle }: StreamViewProps) {
             particle={particle}
             streamPath={path}
             paused={paused}
-            onEnded={next}
+            onEnded={handleParticleEnded}
             onProgress={setProgress}
           />
         );
@@ -411,10 +436,22 @@ function StreamViewInner({ path, streamParticle }: StreamViewProps) {
             particle={particle}
             streamPath={path}
             paused={paused}
-            onEnded={next}
+            onEnded={handleParticleEnded}
             onProgress={setProgress}
           />
         );
+      case 'task':
+        return (
+          <TaskParticleView
+            key={particle.id}
+            particle={particle}
+            containerPath={path}
+            paused={paused}
+            onEnded={handleParticleEnded}
+            onProgress={setProgress}
+            immersive
+          />
+        );
       default:
         return (
           <FallbackParticleView particle={particle} networkId={networkId} />
@@ -423,233 +460,122 @@ function StreamViewInner({ path, streamParticle }: StreamViewProps) {
   }
 
   return (
-    <div
-      className="relative flex h-screen flex-col overflow-hidden bg-black text-white [--stream-safe-top:4rem] [--stream-safe-bottom:5rem]"
-      onMouseMove={handleMouseActivity}
-      onMouseLeave={() => setShowControls(false)}
-    >
-      {/* Top gradient safe zone */}
-      <div className="pointer-events-none absolute inset-x-0 top-0 z-[5] h-32 bg-gradient-to-b from-black/60 to-transparent" />
+    <div className="bg-background flex h-screen overflow-hidden">
+      {/* Stream chrome — immersive playback column */}
+      <div
+        className="bg-background relative flex min-w-0 flex-1 flex-col overflow-hidden [--stream-safe-top:4rem] [--stream-safe-bottom:5rem]"
+        onMouseMove={handleMouseActivity}
+        onMouseLeave={() => setShowControls(false)}
+      >
+        {/* Top gradient safe zone */}
+        <div className="from-background/80 pointer-events-none absolute inset-x-0 top-0 z-[5] h-32 bg-gradient-to-b to-transparent" />
 
-      {/* TopBar — always visible */}
-      <div className="z-10 absolute left-0 right-0 pt-2">
-        <TopBar
-          networkId={networkId}
-          particle={currentParticle}
-          streamParticle={streamParticle}
-        />
-      </div>
-
-      {/* Main playback area */}
-      <div className="flex-1 overflow-hidden">
-        {currentParticle && (
-          <div className="relative flex h-full w-full cursor-pointer items-center justify-center">
-            {renderParticle(currentParticle)}
-
-            <div className="pointer-events-none absolute right-4 top-14 z-20 flex flex-col items-end gap-1.5">
-              {fastPlayback && (
-                <div className="rounded-full bg-black/50 px-2.5 py-1 text-xs font-medium text-white backdrop-blur-sm">
-                  1.5x
-                </div>
-              )}
-              {paused && (
-                <div className="rounded-full bg-black/40 px-2.5 py-1 text-xs font-medium text-white/70 backdrop-blur-sm">
-                  Paused
-                </div>
-              )}
-            </div>
-          </div>
-        )}
-      </div>
-
-      {/* Reaction bar — always visible */}
-      {currentParticle && !isParticleDeleted(currentParticle) && (
-        <div className="absolute right-4 top-1/2 z-10 flex -translate-y-1/2 flex-col items-end gap-2">
-          <ReactionBar
-            reactions={getReactions(currentParticle)}
-            currentHumanId={authedUser?.id ?? ''}
-            humans={network?.humans}
-            onToggle={handleToggleReaction}
-            onOpenTextReaction={() => setTextReactionOpen(true)}
-          />
-          <TextReactionInput
-            open={textReactionOpen}
-            onSubmit={handleSubmitTextReaction}
-            onClose={() => setTextReactionOpen(false)}
+        {/* TopBar — always visible */}
+        <div className="z-10 absolute left-0 right-0 pt-2">
+          <TopBar
+            networkId={networkId}
+            particle={currentParticle}
+            streamParticle={streamParticle}
+            streamPath={path}
           />
         </div>
-      )}
 
-      {/* Composing indicator — left edge, always visible */}
-      <ComposingIndicator
-        users={composingUsers}
-        networkHumans={network?.humans}
-      />
+        {/* Main playback area */}
+        <div className="flex-1 overflow-hidden">
+          {currentParticle && (
+            <div className="relative flex h-full w-full cursor-pointer items-center justify-center">
+              {renderParticle(currentParticle)}
 
-      <ComposeOverlay
-        networkId={networkId}
-        targetPath={path}
-        onActiveChange={setComposeActive}
-        onStepChange={setComposeStep}
-        disabled={streamParticle.status === 'closed'}
-        onParticleCreated={handleParticleCreated}
-      />
-
-      {/* Bottom gradient safe zone for keyboard hints */}
-      <div className="pointer-events-none absolute inset-x-0 bottom-0 z-[5] h-1/4 bg-gradient-to-t from-black/60 to-transparent" />
-
-      {/* BottomBar */}
-      <BottomBar
-        visible={controlsVisible}
-        total={children.length}
-        current={currentIndex}
-        progress={progress}
-        onGoTo={goTo}
-        presenceBySegment={presenceBySegment}
-        onlineHumanIds={onlineHumanIds}
-        exitRemainingMs={exitRemainingMs}
-        onOpenKeybindings={() => setShowKeybindings(true)}
-        onOpenHuddle={handleOpenHuddle}
-        onExit={handleExitNavigate}
-      />
-
-      <KeybindingsOverlay
-        open={showKeybindings}
-        onClose={() => setShowKeybindings(false)}
-        groups={STREAM_VIEW_KEYBINDINGS}
-        title="Stream View"
-      />
-    </div>
-  );
-}
-
-function BottomBar({
-  visible,
-  total,
-  current,
-  progress,
-  onGoTo,
-  presenceBySegment,
-  onlineHumanIds,
-  exitRemainingMs,
-  onOpenKeybindings,
-  onOpenHuddle,
-  onExit,
-}: {
-  visible: boolean;
-  total: number;
-  current: number;
-  progress: number;
-  onGoTo: (index: number) => void;
-  presenceBySegment: Map<
-    number,
-    import('@/hooks/use-presence-positions').HumanPresence[]
-  >;
-  onlineHumanIds: Set<string>;
-  exitRemainingMs: number | null;
-  onOpenKeybindings: () => void;
-  onOpenHuddle: () => void;
-  onExit: () => void;
-}) {
-  return (
-    <div
-      className={cn(
-        'absolute inset-x-0 bottom-0 z-10 transition-all duration-300',
-        visible
-          ? 'opacity-100 translate-y-0'
-          : 'opacity-0 translate-y-2 pointer-events-none',
-      )}
-    >
-      {/* Presence avatars — above the blurred background */}
-      <PlaybackPageIndicator
-        total={total}
-        current={current}
-        progress={progress}
-        onGoTo={onGoTo}
-        presenceBySegment={presenceBySegment}
-        onlineHumanIds={onlineHumanIds}
-        layer="avatars"
-      />
-      {/* Blurred background container — tracks + controls */}
-      <div className="pb-3">
-        <PlaybackPageIndicator
-          total={total}
-          current={current}
-          progress={progress}
-          onGoTo={onGoTo}
-          layer="tracks"
-        />
-        <div className="flex items-center justify-center px-3 pt-2 gap-2">
-          {exitRemainingMs !== null && (
-            <div className="flex justify-center">
-              <span className="rounded-full bg-black/30 px-2 text-xs text-white/70 backdrop-blur-sm">
-                Closing in {Math.ceil(exitRemainingMs / 1000)}s
-              </span>
+              <div className="pointer-events-none absolute right-4 top-14 z-20 flex flex-col items-end gap-1.5">
+                {fastPlayback && (
+                  <div className="bg-card/70 text-foreground border-border rounded-full border px-2.5 py-1 text-xs font-medium backdrop-blur-sm">
+                    1.5x
+                  </div>
+                )}
+                {spacePaused && (
+                  <button
+                    type="button"
+                    onClick={resume}
+                    title="Resume (or press Space)"
+                    className="bg-card/70 text-muted-foreground border-border hover:bg-accent hover:text-foreground pointer-events-auto flex items-center gap-1.5 rounded-full border px-2.5 py-1 text-xs font-medium backdrop-blur-sm transition-colors"
+                  >
+                    <Play className="size-3 fill-current" />
+                    Paused
+                  </button>
+                )}
+              </div>
             </div>
           )}
-          <StreamViewControls
-            showEscape
-            onOpenKeybindings={onOpenKeybindings}
-            onOpenHuddle={onOpenHuddle}
-            onExit={onExit}
-          />
         </div>
-      </div>
-    </div>
-  );
-}
 
-function StreamViewControls({
-  showEscape,
-  onOpenKeybindings,
-  onOpenHuddle,
-  onExit,
-}: {
-  showEscape?: boolean;
-  onOpenKeybindings: () => void;
-  onOpenHuddle: () => void;
-  onExit: () => void;
-}) {
-  const requestIntent = useComposeIntentStore((s) => s.request);
-  return (
-    <div className="flex items-center gap-4 text-sm text-white/50">
-      {showEscape && (
-        <KeyHint
-          keys="Esc"
-          onClick={onExit}
-          title="Back to network (or press Esc)"
-        >
-          back
-        </KeyHint>
+        {/* Reaction bar — always visible */}
+        {currentParticle && !isParticleDeleted(currentParticle) && (
+          <div className="absolute right-4 top-1/2 z-10 flex -translate-y-1/2 flex-col items-end gap-2">
+            <ReactionBar
+              reactions={getReactions(currentParticle)}
+              currentHumanId={authedUser?.id ?? ''}
+              humans={network?.humans}
+              onToggle={handleToggleReaction}
+              onOpenTextReaction={() => setTextReactionOpen(true)}
+            />
+            <TextReactionInput
+              open={textReactionOpen}
+              onSubmit={handleSubmitTextReaction}
+              onClose={() => setTextReactionOpen(false)}
+            />
+          </div>
+        )}
+
+        {/* Composing indicator — left edge, always visible */}
+        <ComposingIndicator
+          users={composingUsers}
+          networkHumans={network?.humans}
+        />
+
+        <ComposeOverlay
+          networkId={networkId}
+          targetPath={path}
+          onActiveChange={setComposeActive}
+          onStepChange={setComposeStep}
+          onParticleCreated={handleParticleCreated}
+        />
+
+        {/* Bottom gradient safe zone for keyboard hints */}
+        <div className="from-background/80 pointer-events-none absolute inset-x-0 bottom-0 z-[5] h-1/4 bg-gradient-to-t to-transparent" />
+
+        {/* BottomBar — pinned visible while browsing, mouse-activity in player */}
+        <BottomBar
+          visible={mode === 'list' || controlsVisible}
+          total={children.length}
+          current={currentIndex}
+          progress={progress}
+          onGoTo={goTo}
+          presenceBySegment={presenceBySegment}
+          onlineHumanIds={onlineHumanIds}
+          exitRemainingMs={exitRemainingMs}
+          onOpenKeybindings={() => setShowKeybindings(true)}
+          onOpenHuddle={handleOpenHuddle}
+          onExit={handleExitNavigate}
+        />
+
+        <KeybindingsOverlay
+          open={showKeybindings}
+          onClose={() => setShowKeybindings(false)}
+          groups={STREAM_VIEW_KEYBINDINGS}
+          title="Stream View"
+        />
+      </div>
+
+      {/* Browse sidebar — a separate chat-like panel beside the stream */}
+      {mode === 'list' && (
+        <StreamListSidebar
+          items={children}
+          networkId={networkId}
+          currentIndex={currentIndex}
+          onSelect={goTo}
+          onToggle={toggleViewMode}
+        />
       )}
-      <VideoAudioToggle />
-      <KeyHint
-        keys="Hold `"
-        onClick={() => requestIntent('record')}
-        title="Reply with a recording (or hold `)"
-      >
-        to reply
-      </KeyHint>
-      <KeyHint
-        keys="T"
-        onClick={() => requestIntent('text')}
-        title="Reply with text (or press T)"
-      >
-        text
-      </KeyHint>
-      <KeyHint
-        keys="H"
-        onClick={onOpenHuddle}
-        title="Start a huddle (or press H)"
-      >
-        huddle
-      </KeyHint>
-      <KeyHint
-        keys="?"
-        onClick={onOpenKeybindings}
-        title="Show all shortcuts"
-        aria-label="Show keyboard shortcuts"
-      />
     </div>
   );
 }

js/desktop/src/features/particles/task-particle-view.tsx

@@ -0,0 +1,401 @@
+import { useCallback, useEffect, useRef, useState } from 'react';
+import { deleteField } from 'firebase/firestore';
+import { Plus, X } from 'lucide-react';
+import type { ChecklistItem, Particle } from '@/api/types';
+import {
+  particlePath,
+  parseParticlePath,
+  toFirestoreDocPath,
+  type ParticlePath,
+} from '@/lib/particle-path';
+import {
+  updateParticle,
+  updateParticleProperties,
+} from '@/lib/firestore-particles';
+import { cn } from '@/lib/utils';
+import { Checkbox } from '@/components/ui/checkbox';
+import { Textarea } from '@/components/ui/textarea';
+import {
+  Select,
+  SelectContent,
+  SelectItem,
+  SelectTrigger,
+  SelectValue,
+} from '@/components/ui/select';
+import { HumanAvatar } from '@/components/human-avatar';
+import { useNetwork } from '@/hooks/use-networks';
+import { useFixedDwell } from '@/hooks/use-fixed-dwell';
+import { useLiveDraftField } from '@/hooks/use-live-draft-field';
+import { useSuspendPlayback } from '@/hooks/use-suspend-playback';
+import { resolveHumanDisplay } from '@/lib/humans';
+import { isTypingTarget } from '@/lib/keyboard';
+import { KeyHint } from '@/components/key-hint';
+
+type TaskParticle = Extract<Particle, { type: 'task' }>;
+
+interface TaskParticleViewProps {
+  particle: TaskParticle;
+  containerPath: ParticlePath;
+  paused: boolean;
+  onEnded: () => void;
+  onProgress?: (ratio: number) => void;
+  /**
+   * Enable focus mode while a field is focused: dim and blur the surrounding
+   * stream, and trap stream keys (Escape leaves the editor, navigation keys
+   * stay put). Off in the standalone leaf view, which has no stream chrome.
+   */
+  immersive?: boolean;
+}
+
+const DWELL_DURATION_S = 8;
+const UNASSIGNED = 'unassigned';
+
+// Stream-navigation keys to swallow while editing so they can't pull focus to
+// another particle (only when focus isn't already in a text field).
+const NAV_KEYS = new Set([
+  'ArrowLeft',
+  'ArrowRight',
+  'ArrowUp',
+  'ArrowDown',
+  'l',
+  'L',
+]);
+
+function useParticleDocPath(
+  containerPath: ParticlePath,
+  particleId: string,
+): string {
+  const { networkId, segments } = parseParticlePath(containerPath);
+  return toFirestoreDocPath(particlePath(networkId, [...segments, particleId]));
+}
+
+export function TaskParticleView({
+  particle,
+  containerPath,
+  paused,
+  onEnded,
+  onProgress,
+  immersive = false,
+}: TaskParticleViewProps) {
+  const { networkId } = parseParticlePath(containerPath);
+  const network = useNetwork(networkId);
+  const docPath = useParticleDocPath(containerPath, particle.id);
+
+  const {
+    title,
+    notes,
+    checklist = [],
+    assigned_to,
+    done,
+  } = particle.properties;
+
+  // Suspend playback while any field inside the card has focus so typing
+  // doesn't race the dwell timer or get eaten by global key handlers.
+  const [editing, setEditing] = useState(false);
+  useSuspendPlayback(editing, `task-edit-${particle.id}`);
+
+  const exitFocus = useCallback(() => {
+    (document.activeElement as HTMLElement | null)?.blur();
+  }, []);
+
+  // While editing, the card acts like the app's other focus overlays: a
+  // capture-phase listener consumes Escape (which blurs the field — flushing
+  // the draft and resuming playback) and swallows stream-navigation keys, so
+  // the stream's own handlers never see them. Self-contained, so no editing
+  // state has to be threaded back up to the stream.
+  useEffect(() => {
+    if (!immersive || !editing) return;
+    const onKeyDown = (e: KeyboardEvent) => {
+      if (e.key === 'Escape') {
+        e.preventDefault();
+        e.stopPropagation();
+        exitFocus();
+      } else if (NAV_KEYS.has(e.key) && !isTypingTarget(e)) {
+        // Arrows still move the caret inside text fields; only block them when
+        // focus is on a non-text control (checkbox, assignee select).
+        e.stopPropagation();
+      }
+    };
+    window.addEventListener('keydown', onKeyDown, { capture: true });
+    return () =>
+      window.removeEventListener('keydown', onKeyDown, { capture: true });
+  }, [immersive, editing, exitFocus]);
+
+  useFixedDwell({
+    id: particle.id,
+    durationS: DWELL_DURATION_S,
+    paused,
+    onEnded,
+    onProgress,
+  });
+
+  const titleField = useLiveDraftField({
+    remoteValue: title,
+    commit: (value) =>
+      updateParticleProperties<'task'>(docPath, { title: value }),
+  });
+  const notesField = useLiveDraftField({
+    remoteValue: notes ?? '',
+    commit: (value) =>
+      updateParticleProperties<'task'>(docPath, { notes: value }),
+  });
+
+  // Checklist writes replace the whole array (merged against the latest live
+  // value); concurrent edits to the same checklist are last-write-wins.
+  const checklistRef = useRef(checklist);
+  useEffect(() => {
+    checklistRef.current = checklist;
+  }, [checklist]);
+
+  const writeChecklist = useCallback(
+    (items: ChecklistItem[]) => {
+      // Advance the local base before the write so a second edit issued before
+      // the next snapshot composes on top of this one instead of dropping it.
+      checklistRef.current = items;
+      return updateParticleProperties<'task'>(docPath, { checklist: items });
+    },
+    [docPath],
+  );
+
+  const handleToggleDone = useCallback(
+    (checked: boolean) =>
+      updateParticleProperties<'task'>(docPath, { done: checked }),
+    [docPath],
+  );
+
+  const handleToggleItem = useCallback(
+    (index: number, checked: boolean) => {
+      const items = checklistRef.current.map((item, i) =>
+        i === index ? { ...item, done: checked } : item,
+      );
+      void writeChecklist(items);
+    },
+    [writeChecklist],
+  );
+
+  const handleCommitItemText = useCallback(
+    (index: number, text: string) => {
+      const items = checklistRef.current.map((item, i) =>
+        i === index ? { ...item, text } : item,
+      );
+      void writeChecklist(items);
+    },
+    [writeChecklist],
+  );
+
+  const handleRemoveItem = useCallback(
+    (index: number) => {
+      void writeChecklist(checklistRef.current.filter((_, i) => i !== index));
+    },
+    [writeChecklist],
+  );
+
+  const handleAddItem = useCallback(
+    (text: string) => {
+      void writeChecklist([...checklistRef.current, { text, done: false }]);
+    },
+    [writeChecklist],
+  );
+
+  const handleAssign = useCallback(
+    (value: string) => {
+      if (value === UNASSIGNED) {
+        void updateParticle(docPath, 'properties.assigned_to', deleteField());
+      } else {
+        void updateParticleProperties<'task'>(docPath, { assigned_to: value });
+      }
+    },
+    [docPath],
+  );
+
+  const assignee = resolveHumanDisplay(assigned_to, network?.humans);
+  const doneCount = checklist.filter((item) => item.done).length;
+
+  return (
+    <div className="flex h-full w-full items-center justify-center px-8 pt-[var(--stream-safe-top,2rem)] pb-[var(--stream-safe-bottom,2rem)]">
+      {immersive && editing && (
+        <div
+          className="animate-in fade-in-0 fixed inset-0 z-30 bg-scrim/50 backdrop-blur-md duration-200"
+          onMouseDown={exitFocus}
+          aria-hidden
+        />
+      )}
+      <div
+        className={cn(
+          'scrollbar-card bg-card text-card-foreground border-border flex max-h-full w-full max-w-[calc(var(--message-content-width)_+_var(--message-card-padding)*2)] flex-col gap-5 overflow-y-auto overscroll-contain rounded border p-[var(--message-card-padding)] transition-shadow',
+          immersive &&
+            editing &&
+            'relative z-40 shadow-2xl shadow-black/50 ring-1 ring-border',
+        )}
+        onFocusCapture={() => setEditing(true)}
+        onBlurCapture={(e) => {
+          if (!e.currentTarget.contains(e.relatedTarget)) setEditing(false);
+        }}
+      >
+        <div className="flex items-start gap-3">
+          <Checkbox
+            checked={done}
+            onCheckedChange={(checked) => handleToggleDone(checked === true)}
+            className="mt-1.5 size-5 rounded-full border-muted-foreground/40 data-[state=checked]:border-emerald-500 data-[state=checked]:bg-emerald-500"
+            aria-label={done ? 'Mark task as not done' : 'Mark task as done'}
+          />
+          <input
+            value={titleField.value}
+            onChange={(e) => titleField.onChange(e.target.value)}
+            onFocus={titleField.onFocus}
+            onBlur={titleField.onBlur}
+            placeholder="Task title"
+            className={cn(
+              'text-foreground placeholder:text-muted-foreground w-full bg-transparent text-2xl font-semibold outline-none',
+              done && 'text-muted-foreground line-through',
+            )}
+          />
+        </div>
+
+        <Textarea
+          value={notesField.value}
+          onChange={(e) => notesField.onChange(e.target.value)}
+          onFocus={notesField.onFocus}
+          onBlur={notesField.onBlur}
+          placeholder="Add notes…"
+          className="text-foreground placeholder:text-muted-foreground min-h-16 resize-none border-none bg-transparent p-0 text-sm shadow-none focus-visible:ring-0 dark:bg-transparent"
+        />
+
+        <div className="flex flex-col gap-1.5">
+          {checklist.length > 0 && (
+            <span className="text-muted-foreground text-xs">
+              {doneCount} / {checklist.length} done
+            </span>
+          )}
+          {checklist.map((item, index) => (
+            <ChecklistItemRow
+              // Index keys + whole-array writes are an accepted tradeoff:
+              // concurrent removal while someone types can shift focus.
+              key={index}
+              item={item}
+              onToggle={(checked) => handleToggleItem(index, checked)}
+              onCommitText={(text) => handleCommitItemText(index, text)}
+              onRemove={() => handleRemoveItem(index)}
+            />
+          ))}
+          <AddChecklistItemRow onAdd={handleAddItem} />
+        </div>
+
+        <div className="flex items-center gap-2">
+          <Select
+            value={assigned_to ?? UNASSIGNED}
+            onValueChange={handleAssign}
+          >
+            <SelectTrigger size="sm" className="w-fit gap-2">
+              {assigned_to && assignee.exists && (
+                <HumanAvatar
+                  size="sm"
+                  initials={assignee.initials}
+                  avatarObjectId={assignee.avatarObjectId}
+                />
+              )}
+              <SelectValue placeholder="Unassigned" />
+            </SelectTrigger>
+            <SelectContent>
+              <SelectItem value={UNASSIGNED}>Unassigned</SelectItem>
+              {network?.humans?.map((human) => (
+                <SelectItem key={human.id} value={human.id}>
+                  {human.email_prefix}
+                </SelectItem>
+              ))}
+            </SelectContent>
+          </Select>
+        </div>
+      </div>
+      {immersive && editing && (
+        <KeyHint
+          keys="Esc"
+          onClick={exitFocus}
+          title="Finish editing (or press Esc)"
+          className="fixed bottom-[calc(var(--stream-safe-bottom,2rem)+0.5rem)] left-1/2 z-40 -translate-x-1/2 text-xs text-white/60"
+        >
+          to finish
+        </KeyHint>
+      )}
+    </div>
+  );
+}
+
+function ChecklistItemRow({
+  item,
+  onToggle,
+  onCommitText,
+  onRemove,
+}: {
+  item: ChecklistItem;
+  onToggle: (checked: boolean) => void;
+  onCommitText: (text: string) => void;
+  onRemove: () => void;
+}) {
+  const textField = useLiveDraftField({
+    remoteValue: item.text,
+    commit: onCommitText,
+  });
+
+  return (
+    <div className="group/item flex items-center gap-2.5">
+      <Checkbox
+        checked={item.done}
+        onCheckedChange={(checked) => onToggle(checked === true)}
+        className="border-muted-foreground/40 data-[state=checked]:border-emerald-500 data-[state=checked]:bg-emerald-500"
+        aria-label={
+          item.done ? 'Mark subtask as not done' : 'Mark subtask as done'
+        }
+      />
+      <input
+        value={textField.value}
+        onChange={(e) => textField.onChange(e.target.value)}
+        onFocus={textField.onFocus}
+        onBlur={textField.onBlur}
+        placeholder="Subtask"
+        className={cn(
+          'text-foreground placeholder:text-muted-foreground w-full bg-transparent text-sm outline-none',
+          item.done && 'text-muted-foreground line-through',
+        )}
+      />
+      <button
+        type="button"
+        onClick={onRemove}
+        className="text-muted-foreground hover:text-foreground opacity-0 transition-opacity group-hover/item:opacity-100"
+        aria-label="Remove subtask"
+      >
+        <X className="size-3.5" />
+      </button>
+    </div>
+  );
+}
+
+function AddChecklistItemRow({ onAdd }: { onAdd: (text: string) => void }) {
+  const [draft, setDraft] = useState('');
+
+  const submit = () => {
+    const text = draft.trim();
+    if (!text) return;
+    onAdd(text);
+    setDraft('');
+  };
+
+  return (
+    <div className="flex items-center gap-2.5">
+      <Plus className="text-muted-foreground size-4" />
+      <input
+        value={draft}
+        onChange={(e) => setDraft(e.target.value)}
+        onKeyDown={(e) => {
+          if (e.key === 'Enter') {
+            e.preventDefault();
+            submit();
+          }
+        }}
+        onBlur={submit}
+        placeholder="Add subtask…"
+        className="text-foreground placeholder:text-muted-foreground w-full bg-transparent text-sm outline-none"
+      />
+    </div>
+  );
+}

js/desktop/src/features/particles/text-particle-view.tsx

@@ -1,4 +1,4 @@
-import { useEffect, useRef, useState } from 'react';
+import { useState } from 'react';
 import { Pencil } from 'lucide-react';
 import type { Particle } from '@/api/types';
 import type { ParticlePath } from '@/lib/particle-path';
@@ -8,8 +8,11 @@ import {
   type LinkPreviewEntry,
 } from '@/hooks/use-link-metadata';
 import { extractUrls } from '@/lib/link-metadata';
+import { getImmersiveTextStyle } from '@/lib/immersive-text';
+import { hasMarkdownFormatting } from '@/lib/markdown';
 import {
   LinkPreviewCard,
+  LinkPreviewCardFallback,
   LinkPreviewCardSkeleton,
 } from '@/components/link-preview-card';
 import { useParticleAttachments } from '@/hooks/use-particle-attachments';
@@ -17,6 +20,7 @@ import { ParticleAttachments } from '@/features/particles/particle-attachments';
 import { TextEditOverlay } from '@/features/particles/text-edit-overlay';
 import { RelativeTimestamp } from '@/components/relative-timestamp';
 import { useAuthStore } from '@/stores/auth-store';
+import { useFixedDwell } from '@/hooks/use-fixed-dwell';
 import { MarkdownEditor } from '@/features/compose/markdown-editor';
 
 type TextParticle = Extract<Particle, { type: 'text' }>;
@@ -33,7 +37,6 @@ interface TextParticleViewProps {
 const CHARS_PER_MINUTE = 1000;
 const MIN_DURATION_S = 3;
 const MAX_DURATION_S = 15;
-const TICK_MS = 100;
 const EXTRA_S_PER_LINK = 2;
 const EXTRA_S_PER_ATTACHMENT = 2;
 
@@ -51,18 +54,6 @@ function computeReadDuration(
   return Math.min(Math.max(base + extra, MIN_DURATION_S), MAX_DURATION_S);
 }
 
-function getImmersiveTextStyle(length: number) {
-  if (length < 30) return { size: 'text-5xl', weight: 'font-semibold' };
-  if (length < 70) return { size: 'text-3xl', weight: 'font-semibold' };
-  return { size: 'text-2xl', weight: 'font-normal' };
-}
-
-function hasMarkdownFormatting(content: string): boolean {
-  return /^#{1,6} |^\s*[-*+] |^\s*\d+\. |^```|`[^`]+`|\*\*|__|\*[^*]|_[^_]|^>/m.test(
-    content,
-  );
-}
-
 function LinkPreviews({ entries }: { entries: LinkPreviewEntry[] }) {
   return (
     <div className="flex flex-wrap gap-3">
@@ -72,7 +63,9 @@ function LinkPreviews({ entries }: { entries: LinkPreviewEntry[] }) {
             <LinkPreviewCardSkeleton />
           ) : entry.metadata ? (
             <LinkPreviewCard metadata={entry.metadata} />
-          ) : null}
+          ) : (
+            <LinkPreviewCardFallback url={entry.url} />
+          )}
         </div>
       ))}
     </div>
@@ -104,29 +97,14 @@ export function TextParticleView({
     urls.length,
     attachments.length,
   );
-  const elapsedRef = useRef(0);
 
-  // Reset elapsed when particle changes
-  useEffect(() => {
-    elapsedRef.current = 0;
-  }, [particle.id]);
-
-  useEffect(() => {
-    if (paused) return;
-
-    const interval = setInterval(() => {
-      elapsedRef.current += TICK_MS / 1000;
-      const ratio = Math.min(elapsedRef.current / durationS, 1);
-      onProgress?.(ratio);
-
-      if (ratio >= 1) {
-        clearInterval(interval);
-        onEnded();
-      }
-    }, TICK_MS);
-
-    return () => clearInterval(interval);
-  }, [paused, durationS, onEnded, onProgress, particle.id]);
+  useFixedDwell({
+    id: particle.id,
+    durationS,
+    paused,
+    onEnded,
+    onProgress,
+  });
 
   // Content is just bare URLs with no surrounding text
   const contentTrimmed = content.trim();
@@ -144,7 +122,7 @@ export function TextParticleView({
         setIsEditing(true);
       }}
       title="Edit"
-      className="absolute bottom-[calc(var(--stream-safe-bottom,2rem)+0.5rem)] left-1/2 -translate-x-1/2 z-30 flex items-center gap-1.5 rounded-full bg-black/40 px-3 py-1.5 text-xs text-white/70 backdrop-blur-sm transition-colors hover:bg-black/60 hover:text-white"
+      className="bg-card/70 text-muted-foreground border-border hover:bg-accent hover:text-foreground absolute bottom-[calc(var(--stream-safe-bottom,2rem)+0.5rem)] left-1/2 z-30 flex -translate-x-1/2 items-center gap-1.5 rounded-full border px-3 py-1.5 text-xs backdrop-blur-sm transition-colors"
     >
       <Pencil className="size-3.5" />
       Edit
@@ -152,7 +130,7 @@ export function TextParticleView({
   );
 
   const editedLabel = particle.properties.edited_at && (
-    <span className="text-xs text-white/40">
+    <span className="text-muted-foreground text-xs">
       edited <RelativeTimestamp date={particle.properties.edited_at} />
     </span>
   );
@@ -168,7 +146,7 @@ export function TextParticleView({
   // Mode 1: bare URLs only — show link cards centered
   if (linksOnly && !hasAttachments) {
     return (
-      <div className="group relative flex h-full w-full items-center justify-center bg-gradient-to-b from-black/40 via-black/20 to-black/40 px-8 pt-[var(--stream-safe-top,2rem)] pb-[var(--stream-safe-bottom,2rem)]">
+      <div className="group relative flex h-full w-full items-center justify-center px-8 pt-[var(--stream-safe-top,2rem)] pb-[var(--stream-safe-bottom,2rem)]">
         <LinkPreviews entries={linkPreviews} />
         {editedLabel && (
           <div className="absolute bottom-6 left-1/2 -translate-x-1/2">
@@ -189,10 +167,10 @@ export function TextParticleView({
   ) {
     const style = getImmersiveTextStyle(content.length);
     return (
-      <div className="group relative flex h-full w-full flex-col items-center justify-center gap-4 bg-gradient-to-b from-black/40 via-black/20 to-black/40 px-8 pt-[var(--stream-safe-top,2rem)] pb-[var(--stream-safe-bottom,2rem)]">
+      <div className="group relative flex h-full w-full flex-col items-center justify-center gap-4 px-8 pt-[var(--stream-safe-top,2rem)] pb-[var(--stream-safe-bottom,2rem)]">
         <p
           className={cn(
-            'max-w-2xl break-words text-center leading-relaxed text-white select-text cursor-text',
+            'text-foreground max-w-2xl cursor-text select-text break-words text-center leading-relaxed',
             style.size,
             style.weight,
           )}
@@ -208,18 +186,8 @@ export function TextParticleView({
 
   // Mode 3: card layout
   return (
-    <div className="group relative flex h-full w-full items-center justify-center bg-gradient-to-b from-black/40 via-black/20 to-black/40 px-8 pt-[var(--stream-safe-top,2rem)] pb-[var(--stream-safe-bottom,2rem)]">
-      <div
-        className={cn(
-          'flex max-h-full w-full max-w-2xl flex-col gap-4 overflow-y-auto overscroll-contain rounded bg-white/10 p-6 backdrop-blur-md',
-          '[&::-webkit-scrollbar]:w-2',
-          '[&::-webkit-scrollbar]:p-2',
-          '[&::-webkit-scrollbar-track]:bg-transparent',
-          '[&::-webkit-scrollbar-thumb]:rounded-full',
-          '[&::-webkit-scrollbar-thumb]:bg-white/30',
-          '[&::-webkit-scrollbar-thumb]:hover:bg-white/50',
-        )}
-      >
+    <div className="group relative flex h-full w-full items-center justify-center px-8 pt-[var(--stream-safe-top,2rem)] pb-[var(--stream-safe-bottom,2rem)]">
+      <div className="scrollbar-card bg-card text-card-foreground border-border flex max-h-full w-full max-w-[calc(var(--message-content-width)_+_var(--message-card-padding)*2)] flex-col gap-4 overflow-y-auto overscroll-contain rounded border p-[var(--message-card-padding)]">
         <MarkdownEditor
           key={content}
           value={content}

js/desktop/src/features/particles/text-reaction-input.tsx

@@ -54,7 +54,7 @@ export function TextReactionInput({
   return (
     <div
       onClick={(e) => e.stopPropagation()}
-      className="flex items-center gap-1 rounded-full bg-black/60 py-1 pl-3 pr-1 shadow-lg ring-1 ring-white/15 backdrop-blur-md"
+      className="bg-popover/90 text-popover-foreground border-border flex items-center gap-1 rounded-full border py-1 pl-3 pr-1 shadow-lg backdrop-blur-md"
     >
       <input
         ref={inputRef}
@@ -74,12 +74,14 @@ export function TextReactionInput({
         }}
         placeholder="Quick reply…"
         maxLength={MAX_LENGTH}
-        className="w-24 bg-transparent text-sm text-white outline-none placeholder:text-white/40"
+        className="text-foreground placeholder:text-muted-foreground w-24 bg-transparent text-sm outline-none"
       />
       <span
         className={cn(
           'min-w-[1.5ch] text-right text-[10px] tabular-nums',
-          remaining <= 8 ? 'text-amber-300/80' : 'text-white/30',
+          remaining <= 8
+            ? 'text-amber-600 dark:text-amber-400'
+            : 'text-muted-foreground',
         )}
       >
         {remaining}
@@ -91,8 +93,8 @@ export function TextReactionInput({
         className={cn(
           'ml-1 flex size-6 items-center justify-center rounded-full transition-colors',
           canSubmit
-            ? 'bg-white/20 text-white hover:bg-white/30'
-            : 'text-white/30',
+            ? 'bg-primary text-primary-foreground hover:bg-primary/90'
+            : 'text-muted-foreground',
         )}
         aria-label="Send reaction"
       >

js/desktop/src/features/settings-page.tsx

@@ -12,11 +12,16 @@ import {
   Volume2,
   ArrowLeft,
   Camera,
+  Sun,
+  Moon,
+  Monitor,
+  Palette,
 } from 'lucide-react';
 import { HumanAvatar } from '@/components/human-avatar';
 import { AvatarEditDialog } from '@/features/settings/avatar-edit-dialog';
 import { Separator } from '@/components/ui/separator';
 import { Switch } from '@/components/ui/switch';
+import { ToggleGroup, ToggleGroupItem } from '@/components/ui/toggle-group';
 import { WindowControls } from '@/components/window-controls';
 import { Button } from '@/components/ui/button';
 import { Muted } from '@/components/ui/typography';
@@ -24,6 +29,7 @@ import { ScrollArea } from '@/components/ui/scroll-area';
 import { CopyableEmail } from '@/components/copyable-email';
 import { useAuthStore } from '@/stores/auth-store';
 import { useSoundEffectsStore } from '@/stores/sound-effects-store';
+import { useThemeStore, type ThemeMode } from '@/stores/theme-store';
 import { apiClient } from '@/api/client';
 import { logError, toUserMessage } from '@/lib/errors';
 import { toast } from 'sonner';
@@ -80,6 +86,50 @@ function SettingsGroup({
   );
 }
 
+const THEME_OPTIONS: {
+  value: ThemeMode;
+  label: string;
+  icon: React.ReactNode;
+}[] = [
+  { value: 'system', label: 'System', icon: <Monitor className="size-3.5" /> },
+  { value: 'light', label: 'Light', icon: <Sun className="size-3.5" /> },
+  { value: 'dark', label: 'Dark', icon: <Moon className="size-3.5" /> },
+];
+
+function ThemeSetting() {
+  const mode = useThemeStore((s) => s.mode);
+  const setMode = useThemeStore((s) => s.setMode);
+
+  return (
+    <div className="flex w-full items-center gap-3 px-4 py-3">
+      <span className="text-muted-foreground flex size-5 items-center justify-center">
+        <Palette className="size-4" />
+      </span>
+      <span className="min-w-0 flex-1 text-sm font-medium">Theme</span>
+      <ToggleGroup
+        type="single"
+        size="sm"
+        value={mode}
+        onValueChange={(value) => value && setMode(value as ThemeMode)}
+        className="border-border bg-muted/50 border p-0.5"
+        spacing={2}
+      >
+        {THEME_OPTIONS.map((option) => (
+          <ToggleGroupItem
+            key={option.value}
+            value={option.value}
+            aria-label={option.label}
+            className="data-[state=on]:bg-background data-[state=on]:text-foreground data-[state=on]:shadow-sm gap-1.5 rounded-md px-2.5 text-xs"
+          >
+            {option.icon}
+            {option.label}
+          </ToggleGroupItem>
+        ))}
+      </ToggleGroup>
+    </div>
+  );
+}
+
 export default function SettingsPage() {
   const navigate = useNavigate();
   const user = useAuthStore((s) => s.user);
@@ -145,13 +195,14 @@ export default function SettingsPage() {
             aria-label="Change profile picture"
           >
             <HumanAvatar
-              size="lg"
+              className="size-16"
               avatarObjectId={user?.avatar_object_id}
               initials={initials}
-              fallbackClassName="bg-primary/10 text-primary font-medium"
+              fallbackClassName="bg-primary/10 text-primary text-xl font-medium"
             />
-            <span className="absolute inset-0 flex items-center justify-center rounded-full bg-black/40 opacity-0 transition-opacity group-hover:opacity-100">
-              <Camera className="size-4 text-white" />
+            <span className="bg-scrim/40 absolute inset-0 flex items-center justify-center rounded-full opacity-0 transition-opacity group-hover:opacity-100" />
+            <span className="bg-primary text-primary-foreground ring-background absolute bottom-0 right-0 flex size-5 items-center justify-center rounded-full ring-2">
+              <Camera className="size-2.5" />
             </span>
           </button>
           <div className="min-w-0 flex-1">
@@ -164,6 +215,12 @@ export default function SettingsPage() {
 
         <Separator />
 
+        <SettingsGroup title="Appearance">
+          <ThemeSetting />
+        </SettingsGroup>
+
+        <Separator className="mt-4" />
+
         <SettingsGroup title="Notifications">
           <div className="flex w-full items-center gap-3 px-4 py-3">
             <span className="text-muted-foreground flex size-5 items-center justify-center">

js/desktop/src/hooks/use-container-children.ts

@@ -0,0 +1,121 @@
+import { useCallback, useMemo, useState } from 'react';
+import { where } from 'firebase/firestore';
+import { useLiveParticleChildren } from '@/hooks/use-particle';
+import { useAuthStore } from '@/stores/auth-store';
+import { parseParticlePath, type ParticlePath } from '@/lib/particle-path';
+import type { Particle } from '@/api/types';
+
+const INITIAL_PAGE_SIZE = 9;
+const PAGE_INCREMENT = 9;
+
+// Stable references so the Firestore subscriptions don't re-attach per render.
+const OPEN_STATUS_FILTER = where('status', '==', 'open');
+const CLOSED_STATUS_FILTER = where('status', '==', 'closed');
+const CONTAINER_TYPE_FILTER = where('type', 'in', ['stream', 'folder']);
+const LEAF_TYPE_FILTER = where('type', 'in', [
+  'media',
+  'file',
+  'text',
+  'task',
+  'paper',
+]);
+
+interface UseContainerChildrenOptions {
+  /**
+   * When set, list only streams with this status, filtered server-side like
+   * the pre-folder query (reuses its composite indexes). Used by the network
+   * root while folders are shelved; folders keep the full mixed-type behavior
+   * so the container model can be picked back up later. Only streams carry
+   * `status`, so the filter excludes other types by itself.
+   */
+  streamStatus?: 'open' | 'closed';
+}
+
+interface UseContainerChildrenResult {
+  /** All visible children, sorted by latest activity (then creation). */
+  items: Particle[];
+  isLoading: boolean;
+  canLoadMore: boolean;
+  loadMore: () => void;
+}
+
+function activityTime(particle: Particle): number {
+  if (
+    (particle.type === 'stream' || particle.type === 'folder') &&
+    particle.last_child_created_at
+  ) {
+    return particle.last_child_created_at.getTime();
+  }
+  return particle.created_at.getTime();
+}
+
+/**
+ * Children of a container (network root or folder), all particle types.
+ *
+ * Two merged subscriptions because visibility scoping filters on `visible_to`
+ * with array-contains-any, and leaf particles don't carry that field — a
+ * single scoped query would silently exclude them. Containers (streams,
+ * folders) are visibility-scoped; leaves inherit access from their container.
+ */
+export function useContainerChildren(
+  path: ParticlePath,
+  { streamStatus }: UseContainerChildrenOptions = {},
+): UseContainerChildrenResult {
+  const { networkId } = parseParticlePath(path);
+  const userId = useAuthStore((s) => s.user?.id);
+
+  const visibilityScopes = useMemo(() => {
+    const scopes: string[] = [];
+    if (userId) scopes.push(`human:${userId}`);
+    scopes.push(`network:${networkId}`);
+    return scopes;
+  }, [userId, networkId]);
+
+  const [limit, setLimit] = useState(INITIAL_PAGE_SIZE);
+
+  const containerFilter = streamStatus
+    ? streamStatus === 'open'
+      ? OPEN_STATUS_FILTER
+      : CLOSED_STATUS_FILTER
+    : CONTAINER_TYPE_FILTER;
+
+  const { children: containers, isLoading: containersLoading } =
+    useLiveParticleChildren(path, {
+      orderByField: 'last_child_created_at',
+      orderDirection: 'desc',
+      visibilityScopes,
+      whereFilter: containerFilter,
+      limit,
+    });
+
+  // Passing undefined disables the subscription entirely in streams-only mode.
+  const { children: leaves, isLoading: leavesLoading } =
+    useLiveParticleChildren(streamStatus ? undefined : path, {
+      orderByField: 'created_at',
+      orderDirection: 'desc',
+      whereFilter: LEAF_TYPE_FILTER,
+      limit,
+    });
+
+  const items = useMemo(
+    () =>
+      [...containers, ...leaves].sort(
+        (a, b) => activityTime(b) - activityTime(a),
+      ),
+    [containers, leaves],
+  );
+
+  // Heuristic: a query returning a full page may have more behind it.
+  const canLoadMore = containers.length >= limit || leaves.length >= limit;
+
+  const loadMore = useCallback(() => {
+    setLimit((prev) => prev + PAGE_INCREMENT);
+  }, []);
+
+  return {
+    items,
+    isLoading: containersLoading || leavesLoading,
+    canLoadMore,
+    loadMore,
+  };
+}

js/desktop/src/hooks/use-create-particle.ts

@@ -29,6 +29,8 @@ interface CreateParticleParams<T extends ParticleType = ParticleType> {
   type: T;
   properties: ParticlePropertiesMap[T];
   createdByHumanId: string;
+  // Required for container types
+  visibleTo?: string[];
 }
 
 export function useCreateParticle() {
@@ -59,6 +61,7 @@ export function useCreateParticle() {
         params.type,
         params.properties,
         params.createdByHumanId,
+        params.visibleTo,
       );
 
       if (!CONTAINER_TYPES.has(params.type)) {
@@ -76,15 +79,17 @@ type CreateStreamParticleParams = {
   properties: ParticlePropertiesMap['stream'];
   createdByHumanId: string;
   visibleTo?: string[];
+  // Container to create the stream in; defaults to the network root.
+  parentPath?: ParticlePath;
 };
 
 export function useCreateStreamParticle() {
   return useMutation({
     mutationFn: async (params: CreateStreamParticleParams) => {
-      const path = particlePath(params.networkId, []);
-      const networkCollectionPath = toFirestoreChildrenPath(path);
+      const path = params.parentPath ?? particlePath(params.networkId, []);
+      const collectionPath = toFirestoreChildrenPath(path);
       return await createStreamParticle(
-        networkCollectionPath,
+        collectionPath,
         params.properties,
         params.createdByHumanId,
         params.visibleTo,

js/desktop/src/hooks/use-file-input.ts

@@ -1,4 +1,5 @@
 import { useCallback, useEffect, useRef, useState } from 'react';
+import { transferFiles } from '@/lib/data-transfer';
 
 interface UseFileInputOptions {
   onFilesSelected: (files: File[]) => void;
@@ -48,16 +49,27 @@ export function useFileInput({
   useEffect(() => {
     if (!enabled) return;
 
+    // Capture phase so file pastes always become attachments — the markdown
+    // editor would otherwise inline a pasted image as an ephemeral blob: URL.
     const handlePaste = (e: ClipboardEvent) => {
-      const files = Array.from(e.clipboardData?.files ?? []);
-      if (files.length > 0) {
-        e.preventDefault();
-        onFilesRef.current(files);
-      }
+      const data = e.clipboardData;
+      if (!data) return;
+
+      // Actual text means "paste as text", even when the clipboard also ships
+      // an image rendition (Excel/Word, or "copy image" from a page with alt
+      // text). Test the payload, not the advertised types: image pastes often
+      // list an *empty* text/plain entry that must not block the attachment.
+      if (data.getData('text/plain').trim().length > 0) return;
+
+      const files = transferFiles(data);
+      if (files.length === 0) return;
+      e.preventDefault();
+      e.stopPropagation();
+      onFilesRef.current(files);
     };
 
-    window.addEventListener('paste', handlePaste);
-    return () => window.removeEventListener('paste', handlePaste);
+    window.addEventListener('paste', handlePaste, true);
+    return () => window.removeEventListener('paste', handlePaste, true);
   }, [enabled]);
 
   // Drag and drop handlers
@@ -99,7 +111,8 @@ export function useFileInput({
       e.stopPropagation();
       dragCountRef.current = 0;
       setIsDragging(false);
-      const files = Array.from(e.dataTransfer.files);
+
+      const files = transferFiles(e.dataTransfer);
       if (files.length > 0) {
         onFilesRef.current(files);
       }

js/desktop/src/hooks/use-fixed-dwell.ts

@@ -0,0 +1,48 @@
+import { useEffect, useRef } from 'react';
+
+const TICK_MS = 100;
+
+interface UseFixedDwellOptions {
+  /** Reset key — restarts the timer when it changes (particle id). */
+  id: string;
+  durationS: number;
+  paused: boolean;
+  onEnded: () => void;
+  onProgress?: (ratio: number) => void;
+}
+
+/**
+ * Drives a fixed-duration dwell timer for particles without intrinsic
+ * playback (text, tasks, events): reports progress and fires onEnded once
+ * the duration elapses. Pausing freezes elapsed time rather than resetting.
+ */
+export function useFixedDwell({
+  id,
+  durationS,
+  paused,
+  onEnded,
+  onProgress,
+}: UseFixedDwellOptions): void {
+  const elapsedRef = useRef(0);
+
+  useEffect(() => {
+    elapsedRef.current = 0;
+  }, [id]);
+
+  useEffect(() => {
+    if (paused) return;
+
+    const interval = setInterval(() => {
+      elapsedRef.current += TICK_MS / 1000;
+      const ratio = Math.min(elapsedRef.current / durationS, 1);
+      onProgress?.(ratio);
+
+      if (ratio >= 1) {
+        clearInterval(interval);
+        onEnded();
+      }
+    }, TICK_MS);
+
+    return () => clearInterval(interval);
+  }, [paused, durationS, onEnded, onProgress, id]);
+}

js/desktop/src/hooks/use-list-keyboard-nav.ts

@@ -1,29 +1,33 @@
 import { useEffect, useState } from 'react';
 import { useMediaSettingsStore } from '@/stores/media-settings-store';
 
-interface UseStreamKeyboardNavOptions {
-  streams: Array<{ id: string }>;
+interface UseListKeyboardNavOptions {
+  items: Array<{ id: string }>;
   enabled: boolean;
-  onNavigate: (streamId: string) => void;
+  onOpen: (id: string) => void;
 }
 
-export function useStreamKeyboardNav({
-  streams,
+/**
+ * Shared keyboard grammar for browsable lists (network root, folders):
+ * ↑/↓ move selection, Enter opens, 1–9 jump, V toggles video/audio.
+ */
+export function useListKeyboardNav({
+  items,
   enabled,
-  onNavigate,
-}: UseStreamKeyboardNavOptions) {
+  onOpen,
+}: UseListKeyboardNavOptions) {
   const [selectedIndex, setSelectedIndex] = useState<number | null>(
-    streams.length > 0 ? 0 : null,
+    items.length > 0 ? 0 : null,
   );
-  const [prevStreamCount, setPrevStreamCount] = useState(streams.length);
+  const [prevItemCount, setPrevItemCount] = useState(items.length);
   const recordingMode = useMediaSettingsStore((s) => s.recordingMode);
   const setRecordingMode = useMediaSettingsStore((s) => s.setRecordingMode);
 
-  // Select the first stream once they load and clear when empty — but not on
+  // Select the first item once they load and clear when empty — but not on
   // every Firestore update, which would scroll the list back to the top.
-  if (streams.length !== prevStreamCount) {
-    setPrevStreamCount(streams.length);
-    if (streams.length === 0) {
+  if (items.length !== prevItemCount) {
+    setPrevItemCount(items.length);
+    if (items.length === 0) {
       setSelectedIndex(null);
     } else if (selectedIndex === null) {
       setSelectedIndex(0);
@@ -31,7 +35,7 @@ export function useStreamKeyboardNav({
   }
 
   useEffect(() => {
-    if (!enabled || streams.length === 0) return;
+    if (!enabled || items.length === 0) return;
 
     const handleKeyDown = (e: KeyboardEvent) => {
       if (e.defaultPrevented) return;
@@ -49,19 +53,19 @@ export function useStreamKeyboardNav({
       const digit = parseInt(e.key, 10);
       if (digit >= 1 && digit <= 9) {
         const index = digit - 1;
-        if (index < streams.length) {
+        if (index < items.length) {
           e.preventDefault();
-          onNavigate(streams[index].id);
+          onOpen(items[index].id);
         }
         return;
       }
 
-      // Enter: navigate to selected
+      // Enter: open selected
       if (e.key === 'Enter') {
         setSelectedIndex((idx) => {
-          if (idx !== null && idx < streams.length) {
+          if (idx !== null && idx < items.length) {
             e.preventDefault();
-            onNavigate(streams[idx].id);
+            onOpen(items[idx].id);
           }
           return idx;
         });
@@ -86,7 +90,7 @@ export function useStreamKeyboardNav({
         setSelectedIndex((prev) => {
           if (prev === null) return 0;
           const next = prev + delta;
-          return Math.max(0, Math.min(next, streams.length - 1));
+          return Math.max(0, Math.min(next, items.length - 1));
         });
       }
     };
@@ -95,7 +99,7 @@ export function useStreamKeyboardNav({
     // components (ToggleGroup, etc.) consume them for their own navigation.
     window.addEventListener('keydown', handleKeyDown, true);
     return () => window.removeEventListener('keydown', handleKeyDown, true);
-  }, [enabled, streams, onNavigate, recordingMode, setRecordingMode]);
+  }, [enabled, items, onOpen, recordingMode, setRecordingMode]);
 
   return { selectedIndex };
 }

js/desktop/src/hooks/use-live-draft-field.ts

@@ -0,0 +1,85 @@
+import { useCallback, useEffect, useRef, useState } from 'react';
+
+const DEFAULT_DEBOUNCE_MS = 600;
+
+interface UseLiveDraftFieldOptions {
+  remoteValue: string;
+  commit: (value: string) => void | Promise<void>;
+  debounceMs?: number;
+}
+
+export interface LiveDraftField {
+  value: string;
+  onChange: (value: string) => void;
+  onFocus: () => void;
+  onBlur: () => void;
+}
+
+/**
+ * State for a multiplayer always-editable text field: local draft while
+ * typing, debounced write-through, immediate flush on blur. Incoming remote
+ * values are applied only while the field is unfocused, so collaborators'
+ * snapshot updates never clobber in-progress typing (blur flushes pending
+ * writes synchronously, so unfocused implies no pending draft). Concurrent
+ * edits to the same field are last-write-wins.
+ */
+export function useLiveDraftField({
+  remoteValue,
+  commit,
+  debounceMs = DEFAULT_DEBOUNCE_MS,
+}: UseLiveDraftFieldOptions): LiveDraftField {
+  const [value, setValue] = useState(remoteValue);
+  const [focused, setFocused] = useState(false);
+
+  // Sync from remote during render (derived-state pattern) unless the user
+  // is editing the field.
+  const [prevRemote, setPrevRemote] = useState(remoteValue);
+  if (remoteValue !== prevRemote) {
+    setPrevRemote(remoteValue);
+    if (!focused) {
+      setValue(remoteValue);
+    }
+  }
+
+  // Written only in handlers; read by flush() so its identity stays stable.
+  const valueRef = useRef(remoteValue);
+  const pendingRef = useRef(false);
+  const timerRef = useRef<ReturnType<typeof setTimeout> | undefined>(undefined);
+  const commitRef = useRef(commit);
+  useEffect(() => {
+    commitRef.current = commit;
+  }, [commit]);
+
+  const flush = useCallback(() => {
+    clearTimeout(timerRef.current);
+    timerRef.current = undefined;
+    if (!pendingRef.current) return;
+    pendingRef.current = false;
+    void commitRef.current(valueRef.current);
+  }, []);
+
+  // Flush any pending write when the field unmounts (e.g. playback advances).
+  useEffect(() => flush, [flush]);
+
+  const onChange = useCallback(
+    (next: string) => {
+      valueRef.current = next;
+      setValue(next);
+      pendingRef.current = true;
+      clearTimeout(timerRef.current);
+      timerRef.current = setTimeout(flush, debounceMs);
+    },
+    [debounceMs, flush],
+  );
+
+  const onFocus = useCallback(() => {
+    setFocused(true);
+  }, []);
+
+  const onBlur = useCallback(() => {
+    setFocused(false);
+    flush();
+  }, [flush]);
+
+  return { value, onChange, onFocus, onBlur };
+}

js/desktop/src/hooks/use-playback-keys.ts

@@ -1,4 +1,10 @@
-import { useEffect, useRef, useState, type RefObject } from 'react';
+import {
+  useCallback,
+  useEffect,
+  useRef,
+  useState,
+  type RefObject,
+} from 'react';
 import type { MediaParticleHandle } from '@/features/particles/media-particle-view';
 import { useSuspendPlayback } from '@/hooks/use-suspend-playback';
 import {
@@ -15,6 +21,10 @@ interface UsePlaybackKeysOptions {
 
 interface UsePlaybackKeysResult {
   fastPlayback: boolean;
+  /** True while playback is paused by the user's space toggle/hold. */
+  spacePaused: boolean;
+  /** Clear the user's space pause (e.g. clicking the on-screen play button). */
+  resume: () => void;
 }
 
 /**
@@ -31,6 +41,11 @@ export function usePlaybackKeys({
 
   useSuspendPlayback(spaceHeld, 'hold-space');
 
+  const resume = useCallback(() => {
+    setSpaceHeld(false);
+    spaceStartRef.current = 0;
+  }, []);
+
   useEffect(() => {
     const isExternallyPaused = () =>
       selectIsPaused(usePlaybackPauseStore.getState()) && !spaceHeld;
@@ -92,5 +107,5 @@ export function usePlaybackKeys({
     };
   }, [mediaRef, spaceHeld]);
 
-  return { fastPlayback };
+  return { fastPlayback, spacePaused: spaceHeld, resume };
 }

js/desktop/src/hooks/use-stream-navigation-keys.ts

@@ -11,6 +11,7 @@ interface UseStreamNavigationKeysOptions {
   childrenLength: number;
   mediaRef: RefObject<MediaParticleHandle | null>;
   onExit: () => void;
+  onToggleViewMode: () => void;
 }
 
 /**
@@ -24,6 +25,7 @@ export function useStreamNavigationKeys({
   childrenLength,
   mediaRef,
   onExit,
+  onToggleViewMode,
 }: UseStreamNavigationKeysOptions) {
   useEffect(() => {
     const onKeyDown = (e: KeyboardEvent) => {
@@ -54,10 +56,25 @@ export function useStreamNavigationKeys({
           e.preventDefault();
           onExit();
           break;
+        case 'l':
+        case 'L':
+          // Registered here (not in action keys) because the toggle must work
+          // in list mode, where playback is suspended and action keys bail.
+          e.preventDefault();
+          onToggleViewMode();
+          break;
       }
     };
 
     window.addEventListener('keydown', onKeyDown);
     return () => window.removeEventListener('keydown', onKeyDown);
-  }, [next, prev, currentIndex, childrenLength, mediaRef, onExit]);
+  }, [
+    next,
+    prev,
+    currentIndex,
+    childrenLength,
+    mediaRef,
+    onExit,
+    onToggleViewMode,
+  ]);
 }

js/desktop/src/hooks/use-stream-particles.ts

@@ -1,80 +0,0 @@
-import { useCallback, useMemo, useState } from 'react';
-import { where, type QueryFieldFilterConstraint } from 'firebase/firestore';
-import { useLiveParticleChildren } from '@/hooks/use-particle';
-import { useAuthStore } from '@/stores/auth-store';
-import { parseParticlePath, type ParticlePath } from '@/lib/particle-path';
-import type { Particle, StreamProperties } from '@/api/types';
-
-export type StreamParticle = Particle & {
-  type: 'stream';
-  properties: StreamProperties;
-};
-
-const INITIAL_PAGE_SIZE = 12;
-const PAGE_INCREMENT = 12;
-
-// Stable where-constraint references so the Firestore subscription only
-// re-attaches when the tab actually changes, not on every render.
-const OPEN_STATUS_FILTER = where('status', '==', 'open');
-const CLOSED_STATUS_FILTER = where('status', '==', 'closed');
-
-function useVisibilityScopes(userId?: string, networkId?: string) {
-  return useMemo(() => {
-    const scopes: string[] = [];
-    if (userId) scopes.push(`human:${userId}`);
-    if (networkId) scopes.push(`network:${networkId}`);
-    return scopes;
-  }, [userId, networkId]);
-}
-
-interface UseStreamParticlesOptions {
-  // Which streams to subscribe to
-  status: 'open' | 'closed';
-}
-
-interface UseStreamParticlesResult {
-  streams: StreamParticle[];
-  isLoading: boolean;
-  networkId: string;
-  /** True when more streams may exist beyond the current window. */
-  canLoadMore: boolean;
-  /** Extend the pagination window. */
-  loadMore: () => void;
-}
-
-export function useStreamParticles(
-  path: ParticlePath,
-  { status }: UseStreamParticlesOptions,
-): UseStreamParticlesResult {
-  const { networkId } = parseParticlePath(path);
-  const user = useAuthStore((s) => s.user);
-  const visibilityScopes = useVisibilityScopes(user?.id, networkId);
-
-  const [limit, setLimit] = useState(INITIAL_PAGE_SIZE);
-
-  const whereFilter: QueryFieldFilterConstraint =
-    status === 'open' ? OPEN_STATUS_FILTER : CLOSED_STATUS_FILTER;
-
-  const { children, isLoading } = useLiveParticleChildren(path, {
-    orderByField: 'last_child_created_at',
-    orderDirection: 'desc',
-    visibilityScopes,
-    whereFilter,
-    limit,
-  });
-
-  const streams = useMemo(
-    () => children.filter((c): c is StreamParticle => c.type === 'stream'),
-    [children],
-  );
-
-  // Heuristic: if we got back as many items as we asked for, assume there
-  // might be more. Clicking load-more when there are no more is a no-op.
-  const canLoadMore = streams.length >= limit;
-
-  const loadMore = useCallback(() => {
-    setLimit((prev) => prev + PAGE_INCREMENT);
-  }, []);
-
-  return { streams, isLoading, networkId, canLoadMore, loadMore };
-}

js/desktop/src/hooks/use-stream-playback.ts

@@ -98,12 +98,26 @@ interface UseStreamPlaybackResult {
   goToParticle: (particleId: string) => void;
 }
 
+interface UseStreamPlaybackOptions {
+  /**
+   * When false, newly arriving particles don't pull playback forward after
+   * it has ended (list mode browses; selection must stay put). Default true.
+   */
+  autoAdvanceOnNew?: boolean;
+}
+
 export function useStreamPlayback(
   streamParticle: Particle & { type: 'stream' },
   path: ParticlePath,
+  { autoAdvanceOnNew = true }: UseStreamPlaybackOptions = {},
 ): UseStreamPlaybackResult {
   const userId = useAuthStore((s) => s.user?.id);
   const [state, dispatch] = useReducer(playbackReducer, initialState);
+  // Read via ref so the onAdded subscription callback stays stable.
+  const autoAdvanceOnNewRef = useRef(autoAdvanceOnNew);
+  useEffect(() => {
+    autoAdvanceOnNewRef.current = autoAdvanceOnNew;
+  }, [autoAdvanceOnNew]);
   // Track the stream ID we've initialized for, to reset when navigating between streams
   const initializedForRef = useRef<string | null>(null);
   // Latest currentIndex for onParticleRemoved, which is passed into
@@ -115,6 +129,7 @@ export function useStreamPlayback(
 
   // --- Firestore change callbacks ---
   const onParticleAdded = useCallback((particle: Particle) => {
+    if (!autoAdvanceOnNewRef.current) return;
     dispatch({ type: 'PARTICLE_ADDED', particleId: particle.id });
   }, []);
 

js/desktop/src/hooks/use-stream-view-mode.ts

@@ -0,0 +1,15 @@
+import { useCallback, useState } from 'react';
+
+export type StreamViewMode = 'player' | 'list';
+
+export function useStreamViewMode(): {
+  mode: StreamViewMode;
+  toggle: () => void;
+} {
+  const [mode, setMode] = useState<StreamViewMode>('player');
+  const toggle = useCallback(() => {
+    setMode((prev) => (prev === 'player' ? 'list' : 'player'));
+  }, []);
+
+  return { mode, toggle };
+}

js/desktop/src/lib/constants.ts

@@ -4,6 +4,15 @@ export const MAX_ATTACHMENT_SIZE_BYTES = 25 * 1024 * 1024;
 /** Maximum number of file attachments per particle. */
 export const MAX_ATTACHMENTS = 10;
 
+/** Maximum recommended duration for a media (audio/video) recording, in seconds. */
+export const RECORDING_MAX_DURATION_SECONDS = 60;
+
+/**
+ * Minimum time the record key must be held to count as hold-to-record (vs. a
+ * quick tap that toggles), in milliseconds.
+ */
+export const HOLD_THRESHOLD_MS = 250;
+
 export const SUPPORT_EMAIL = 'team@flowylabs.ai';
 
 export const PRIVACY_URL = 'https://flowylabs.ai/llink/privacy';

js/desktop/src/lib/data-transfer.ts

@@ -0,0 +1,12 @@
+/**
+ * Files carried by a paste or drag {@link DataTransfer}. Pasted/dragged images
+ * frequently surface only through `items` (`getAsFile`), with `files` left
+ * empty, so read `items` first and fall back to `files`.
+ */
+export function transferFiles(data: DataTransfer): File[] {
+  const fromItems = Array.from(data.items)
+    .filter((item) => item.kind === 'file')
+    .map((item) => item.getAsFile())
+    .filter((file): file is File => file !== null);
+  return fromItems.length > 0 ? fromItems : Array.from(data.files);
+}

js/desktop/src/lib/firestore-particles.ts

@@ -23,7 +23,11 @@ import {
   QueryFieldFilterConstraint,
 } from 'firebase/firestore';
 import { firestoreDb } from '@/firebase';
-import { isContainerType, ParticleSchema } from '@/api/types';
+import {
+  isContainerType,
+  ParticleSchema,
+  UnknownParticleSchema,
+} from '@/api/types';
 import type {
   Particle,
   ParticleType,
@@ -33,6 +37,22 @@ import type {
 
 // --- Converter ---
 
+// Firestore stores timestamps as `Timestamp`; zod expects `Date`. Coerce the
+// per-type property fields that carry timestamps.
+function coerceLeafPropertyDates(
+  type: ParticleType,
+  properties: DocumentData | undefined,
+): DocumentData | undefined {
+  if (!properties) return properties;
+  if (type === 'text' && properties.edited_at) {
+    return {
+      ...properties,
+      edited_at: (properties.edited_at as Timestamp).toDate(),
+    };
+  }
+  return properties;
+}
+
 const particleConverter: FirestoreDataConverter<Particle> = {
   toFirestore(particle: Particle): DocumentData {
     const { id: _id, created_at, updated_at, ...rest } = particle;
@@ -60,6 +80,7 @@ const particleConverter: FirestoreDataConverter<Particle> = {
           id: snap.id,
           type: raw.type,
           properties: raw.properties,
+          status: raw.status ?? undefined,
           created_at: (raw.created_at as Timestamp).toDate(),
           created_by_human_id: raw.created_by_human_id,
           updated_at: raw.updated_at
@@ -79,7 +100,6 @@ const particleConverter: FirestoreDataConverter<Particle> = {
             : undefined,
           huddle_active_participants:
             raw.huddle_active_participants ?? undefined,
-          status: raw.status ?? undefined,
         });
       case 'folder':
         return ParticleSchema.parse({
@@ -92,21 +112,16 @@ const particleConverter: FirestoreDataConverter<Particle> = {
             ? (raw.updated_at as Timestamp).toDate()
             : undefined,
           visible_to: raw.visible_to,
+          last_child_created_at: raw.last_child_created_at
+            ? (raw.last_child_created_at as Timestamp).toDate()
+            : undefined,
         });
       case 'media':
       case 'file':
       case 'text':
-      case 'quest':
+      case 'task':
       case 'paper': {
-        // Firestore stores timestamps as `Timestamp`; zod expects `Date`. Text
-        // particles carry `properties.edited_at`, so coerce it if present.
-        const properties =
-          type === 'text' && raw.properties?.edited_at
-            ? {
-                ...raw.properties,
-                edited_at: (raw.properties.edited_at as Timestamp).toDate(),
-              }
-            : raw.properties;
+        const properties = coerceLeafPropertyDates(type, raw.properties);
         return ParticleSchema.parse({
           id: snap.id,
           type: raw.type,
@@ -124,11 +139,33 @@ const particleConverter: FirestoreDataConverter<Particle> = {
         });
       }
       default:
-        throw new Error(`Unknown particle type: ${type}`);
+        // Forward compatibility: keep unrecognized types visible as
+        // placeholders instead of breaking the snapshot they arrive in.
+        return UnknownParticleSchema.parse({
+          id: snap.id,
+          type: 'unknown',
+          raw_type: raw.type,
+          created_at: (raw.created_at as Timestamp).toDate(),
+          created_by_human_id: raw.created_by_human_id,
+          updated_at: raw.updated_at
+            ? (raw.updated_at as Timestamp).toDate()
+            : undefined,
+        });
     }
   },
 };
 
+// Corrupt docs (malformed base fields, schema parse failures) shouldn't take
+// down a whole subscription — skip just the bad doc and keep the rest.
+function safeData(snap: QueryDocumentSnapshot<Particle>): Particle | null {
+  try {
+    return snap.data();
+  } catch (err) {
+    console.warn(`Skipping unparseable particle at ${snap.ref.path}:`, err);
+    return null;
+  }
+}
+
 // --- Typed reference helpers ---
 
 function typedDoc(path: string) {
@@ -149,7 +186,7 @@ export function subscribeToParticle(
   return onSnapshot(
     typedDoc(docPath),
     (snap) => {
-      onData(snap.exists() ? snap.data() : null);
+      onData(snap.exists() ? safeData(snap) : null);
     },
     onError,
   );
@@ -161,7 +198,7 @@ export async function getParticle(docPath: string): Promise<Particle | null> {
     return null;
   }
 
-  return doc.data();
+  return safeData(doc);
 }
 
 export interface GetParticleChildrenOptions {
@@ -184,7 +221,7 @@ export async function getParticleChildren(
     orderBy(orderByField, orderDirection),
   );
   const snap = await getDocs(q);
-  return snap.docs.map((d) => d.data());
+  return snap.docs.flatMap((d) => safeData(d) ?? []);
 }
 
 export interface SubscribeToParticleChildrenOptions {
@@ -230,14 +267,16 @@ export function subscribeToParticleChildren(
   return onSnapshot(
     q,
     (snap) => {
-      const updatedChildren = snap.docs.map((d) => d.data());
+      const updatedChildren = snap.docs.flatMap((d) => safeData(d) ?? []);
       onData(updatedChildren);
 
       if (onAdded || onRemoved) {
         for (const change of snap.docChanges()) {
-          if (change.type === 'added' && onAdded) onAdded(change.doc.data());
+          const child = safeData(change.doc);
+          if (!child) continue;
+          if (change.type === 'added' && onAdded) onAdded(child);
           if (change.type === 'removed' && onRemoved)
-            onRemoved(change.doc.data(), updatedChildren);
+            onRemoved(child, updatedChildren);
         }
       }
     },
@@ -258,12 +297,31 @@ export function subscribeToLatestChild(
   return onSnapshot(
     q,
     (snap) => {
-      onData(snap.empty ? null : snap.docs[0].data());
+      onData(snap.empty ? null : safeData(snap.docs[0]));
     },
     onError,
   );
 }
 
+// Best-effort bump of the parent container's last_child_created_at when a
+// child is created. The particle processor worker does this for stream
+// parents, but skips folders, so the client keeps folder activity fresh
+// itself. Same value semantics as the worker: the child's created_at, so it
+// stays directly comparable with playback markers.
+function bumpParentLastChildCreatedAt(
+  collectionPath: string,
+  childCreatedAt: Date,
+): void {
+  const parentDocPath = collectionPath.replace(/\/children$/, '');
+  // The network root (networks/{id}) is not a particle doc — nothing to bump.
+  if (!parentDocPath.includes('/children/')) return;
+  updateDoc(doc(firestoreDb, parentDocPath), {
+    last_child_created_at: Timestamp.fromDate(childCreatedAt),
+  }).catch(() => {
+    // Non-fatal: ordering freshness only.
+  });
+}
+
 // This creates a new particle document with the given properties and returns its ID.
 export async function createParticle<T extends ParticleType>(
   collectionPath: string,
@@ -279,15 +337,21 @@ export async function createParticle<T extends ParticleType>(
     );
   }
 
+  const createdAt = new Date();
   const particle: Particle = ParticleSchema.parse({
     id: '', // ignored by toFirestore, but needed to satisfy the type
     type,
     properties,
-    created_at: new Date(),
+    created_at: createdAt,
     created_by_human_id: createdByHumanId,
     ...(visibleTo ? { visible_to: visibleTo } : {}),
+    // Containers start with last_child_created_at = created_at so they appear
+    // in activity-ordered queries before they have any children (Firestore
+    // orderBy drops docs missing the field).
+    ...(isContainerType(type) ? { last_child_created_at: createdAt } : {}),
   });
   const ref = await addDoc(typedCollection(collectionPath), particle);
+  bumpParentLastChildCreatedAt(collectionPath, createdAt);
   return ref.id;
 }
 
@@ -301,19 +365,32 @@ export async function createStreamParticle(
     throw new Error('visibleTo is required for streams and cannot be empty');
   }
 
+  const createdAt = new Date();
   const particle: Particle = ParticleSchema.parse({
     id: '',
     type: 'stream',
     properties,
-    created_at: new Date(),
+    status: 'open',
+    created_at: createdAt,
     created_by_human_id: createdByHumanId,
     visible_to: visibleTo,
-    status: 'open',
+    last_child_created_at: createdAt,
   });
   const ref = await addDoc(typedCollection(collectionPath), particle);
+  bumpParentLastChildCreatedAt(collectionPath, createdAt);
   return ref.id;
 }
 
+export async function updateStreamStatus(
+  docPath: string,
+  status: 'open' | 'closed',
+): Promise<void> {
+  await updateDoc(typedDoc(docPath), {
+    status,
+    updated_at: serverTimestamp(),
+  });
+}
+
 // This allows updating properties without overwriting the entire properties object
 export async function updateParticleProperties<T extends ParticleType>(
   docPath: string,
@@ -382,14 +459,6 @@ export async function updateParticle(
   });
 }
 
-export async function updateStreamStatus(
-  docPath: string,
-  status: 'open' | 'closed',
-): Promise<void> {
-  const particleRef = typedDoc(docPath);
-  await updateDoc(particleRef, { status, updated_at: serverTimestamp() });
-}
-
 /**
  * Soft-delete (tombstone) a non-container particle. The Firestore doc stays
  * in place so concurrent viewers see the deletion inline rather than being

js/desktop/src/lib/immersive-text.ts

@@ -0,0 +1,7 @@
+/** Font scale for short messages shown as large centered text. Shared by the
+ *  composer and the posted view so editing matches the final render. */
+export function getImmersiveTextStyle(length: number) {
+  if (length < 30) return { size: 'text-5xl', weight: 'font-semibold' };
+  if (length < 70) return { size: 'text-3xl', weight: 'font-semibold' };
+  return { size: 'text-2xl', weight: 'font-normal' };
+}

js/desktop/src/lib/link-metadata.ts

@@ -14,3 +14,11 @@ export function extractUrls(text: string): string[] {
   // should only yield a single preview card.
   return Array.from(new Set(Array.from(text.matchAll(URL_REGEX), (m) => m[0])));
 }
+
+export function domainFromUrl(url: string): string {
+  try {
+    return new URL(url).hostname.replace(/^www\./, '');
+  } catch {
+    return url;
+  }
+}

js/desktop/src/lib/markdown.ts

@@ -0,0 +1,5 @@
+export function hasMarkdownFormatting(content: string): boolean {
+  return /^#{1,6} |^\s*[-*+] |^\s*\d+\. |^```|`[^`]+`|\*\*|__|\*\S[^*]*\*|\b_\S[^_]*_\b|^>/m.test(
+    content,
+  );
+}

js/desktop/src/lib/particle-display.ts

@@ -0,0 +1,91 @@
+import {
+  CircleCheck,
+  FileText,
+  Folder,
+  HelpCircle,
+  Image,
+  MessageSquare,
+  Mic,
+  Radio,
+  StickyNote,
+  Trash2,
+  Video,
+  type LucideIcon,
+} from 'lucide-react';
+import { isParticleDeleted, type Particle } from '@/api/types';
+
+export function getParticleTypeIcon(particle: Particle): LucideIcon {
+  if (isParticleDeleted(particle)) return Trash2;
+  switch (particle.type) {
+    case 'stream':
+      return Radio;
+    case 'folder':
+      return Folder;
+    case 'text':
+      return MessageSquare;
+    case 'media': {
+      const mime = particle.properties.mime_type;
+      if (mime.startsWith('video/')) return Video;
+      if (mime.startsWith('audio/')) return Mic;
+      if (mime.startsWith('image/')) return Image;
+      return Video;
+    }
+    case 'file':
+      return FileText;
+    case 'task':
+      return CircleCheck;
+    case 'paper':
+      return StickyNote;
+    case 'unknown':
+      return HelpCircle;
+  }
+}
+
+export function getMessagePreview(particle: Particle): string {
+  if (isParticleDeleted(particle)) return 'Deleted particle';
+  switch (particle.type) {
+    case 'stream':
+    case 'folder':
+      return particle.properties.name;
+    case 'text':
+      return particle.properties.content;
+    case 'media': {
+      const mime = particle.properties.mime_type;
+      if (mime.startsWith('image/')) return 'Photo';
+      if (mime.startsWith('video/') || mime.startsWith('audio/')) {
+        const transcriptText = particle.properties.transcript?.transcript;
+        if (transcriptText) return transcriptText;
+        return mime.startsWith('video/') ? 'Video clip' : 'Voice note';
+      }
+      return 'Media';
+    }
+    case 'file':
+      return particle.properties.filename;
+    case 'task':
+      return particle.properties.title;
+    case 'paper':
+      return particle.properties.title;
+    case 'unknown':
+      return 'Unsupported particle';
+  }
+}
+
+export function getParticleDisplayName(particle: Particle): string {
+  switch (particle.type) {
+    case 'stream':
+    case 'folder':
+      return particle.properties.name;
+    case 'task':
+      return particle.properties.title;
+    case 'paper':
+      return particle.properties.title;
+    case 'file':
+      return particle.properties.filename;
+    case 'text':
+      return particle.properties.content.slice(0, 30);
+    case 'media':
+      return particle.type;
+    case 'unknown':
+      return 'Unsupported particle';
+  }
+}

js/desktop/src/renderer.tsx

@@ -1,6 +1,7 @@
 import { createRoot } from 'react-dom/client';
 import App from './App';
 import { initSentryRenderer } from '@/lib/sentry';
+import '@/stores/theme-store';
 import './styles/globals.css';
 
 initSentryRenderer();

js/desktop/src/stores/compose-intent-store.ts

@@ -10,6 +10,7 @@ import { create } from 'zustand';
  * |--------|-----------------|--------------------------------------------|
  * | record | idle            | start a media (camera/mic) recording       |
  * | text   | idle            | open the text compose step                 |
+ * | task   | idle            | open the task compose step                 |
  * | stop   | recording       | finish recording → review                  |
  * | cancel | recording, etc. | abort recording / discard review           |
  * | send   | reviewing       | submit the recorded particle               |
@@ -18,7 +19,13 @@ import { create } from 'zustand';
  * ultimately invoke the same callbacks the intent dispatcher does, so the
  * guard logic stays in one place.
  */
-export type ComposeIntent = 'record' | 'text' | 'stop' | 'cancel' | 'send';
+export type ComposeIntent =
+  | 'record'
+  | 'text'
+  | 'task'
+  | 'stop'
+  | 'cancel'
+  | 'send';
 
 interface ComposeIntentState {
   intent: { kind: ComposeIntent } | null;

js/desktop/src/stores/onboarding-store.ts

@@ -0,0 +1,22 @@
+import { create } from 'zustand';
+
+const KEY = 'llink:onboarding-completed';
+
+interface OnboardingState {
+  hasCompletedOnboarding: boolean;
+  markComplete: () => void;
+  /** Clears the flag so the wizard runs again (handy for QA). */
+  reset: () => void;
+}
+
+export const useOnboardingStore = create<OnboardingState>((set) => ({
+  hasCompletedOnboarding: localStorage.getItem(KEY) === 'true',
+  markComplete: () => {
+    localStorage.setItem(KEY, 'true');
+    set({ hasCompletedOnboarding: true });
+  },
+  reset: () => {
+    localStorage.removeItem(KEY);
+    set({ hasCompletedOnboarding: false });
+  },
+}));

js/desktop/src/stores/theme-store.ts

@@ -0,0 +1,63 @@
+import { create } from 'zustand';
+
+export type ThemeMode = 'light' | 'dark' | 'system';
+
+const STORAGE_KEY = 'llink:theme';
+const DEFAULT_MODE: ThemeMode = 'dark';
+
+function loadMode(): ThemeMode {
+  try {
+    const v = localStorage.getItem(STORAGE_KEY);
+    if (v === 'light' || v === 'dark' || v === 'system') return v;
+  } catch {
+    // storage unavailable
+  }
+  return DEFAULT_MODE;
+}
+
+function systemPrefersDark(): boolean {
+  return window.matchMedia?.('(prefers-color-scheme: dark)').matches ?? true;
+}
+
+function resolveDark(mode: ThemeMode): boolean {
+  return mode === 'system' ? systemPrefersDark() : mode === 'dark';
+}
+
+function applyMode(mode: ThemeMode) {
+  document.documentElement.classList.toggle('dark', resolveDark(mode));
+}
+
+interface ThemeState {
+  mode: ThemeMode;
+  isDark: boolean;
+  setMode: (mode: ThemeMode) => void;
+}
+
+export const useThemeStore = create<ThemeState>((set, get) => {
+  const initialMode = loadMode();
+  applyMode(initialMode);
+
+  // Track the OS preference so "system" mode stays in sync live.
+  window
+    .matchMedia?.('(prefers-color-scheme: dark)')
+    .addEventListener('change', () => {
+      if (get().mode === 'system') {
+        applyMode('system');
+        set({ isDark: systemPrefersDark() });
+      }
+    });
+
+  return {
+    mode: initialMode,
+    isDark: resolveDark(initialMode),
+    setMode: (mode) => {
+      applyMode(mode);
+      set({ mode, isDark: resolveDark(mode) });
+      try {
+        localStorage.setItem(STORAGE_KEY, mode);
+      } catch {
+        // storage unavailable
+      }
+    },
+  };
+});

js/desktop/src/styles/globals.css

@@ -47,75 +47,92 @@
   --color-sidebar-accent-foreground: var(--sidebar-accent-foreground);
   --color-sidebar-border: var(--sidebar-border);
   --color-sidebar-ring: var(--sidebar-ring);
+  --color-scrim: var(--scrim);
 }
 
+/* Warm Sand / Amber palette. Neutrals carry a low-chroma warm hue (~60-85°)
+   so surfaces read as paper/espresso rather than flat gray, with a burnt-amber
+   primary as the brand accent. */
 :root {
   --radius: 0.625rem;
-  --background: oklch(1 0 0);
-  --foreground: oklch(0.145 0 0);
-  --card: oklch(1 0 0);
-  --card-foreground: oklch(0.145 0 0);
-  --popover: oklch(1 0 0);
-  --popover-foreground: oklch(0.145 0 0);
-  --primary: oklch(0.205 0 0);
-  --primary-foreground: oklch(0.985 0 0);
-  --secondary: oklch(0.97 0 0);
-  --secondary-foreground: oklch(0.205 0 0);
-  --muted: oklch(0.97 0 0);
-  --muted-foreground: oklch(0.556 0 0);
-  --accent: oklch(0.97 0 0);
-  --accent-foreground: oklch(0.205 0 0);
+  --background: oklch(0.985 0.006 83);
+  --foreground: oklch(0.255 0.012 64);
+  --card: oklch(0.998 0.003 90);
+  --card-foreground: oklch(0.255 0.012 64);
+  --popover: oklch(0.998 0.003 90);
+  --popover-foreground: oklch(0.255 0.012 64);
+  --primary: oklch(0.62 0.128 62);
+  --primary-foreground: oklch(0.99 0.006 90);
+  --secondary: oklch(0.945 0.014 78);
+  --secondary-foreground: oklch(0.32 0.014 60);
+  --muted: oklch(0.945 0.012 78);
+  --muted-foreground: oklch(0.535 0.02 62);
+  --accent: oklch(0.92 0.03 70);
+  --accent-foreground: oklch(0.3 0.035 55);
   --destructive: oklch(0.577 0.245 27.325);
-  --border: oklch(0.922 0 0);
-  --input: oklch(0.922 0 0);
-  --ring: oklch(0.708 0 0);
-  --chart-1: oklch(0.646 0.222 41.116);
-  --chart-2: oklch(0.6 0.118 184.704);
-  --chart-3: oklch(0.398 0.07 227.392);
-  --chart-4: oklch(0.828 0.189 84.429);
-  --chart-5: oklch(0.769 0.188 70.08);
-  --sidebar: oklch(0.985 0 0);
-  --sidebar-foreground: oklch(0.145 0 0);
-  --sidebar-primary: oklch(0.205 0 0);
-  --sidebar-primary-foreground: oklch(0.985 0 0);
-  --sidebar-accent: oklch(0.97 0 0);
-  --sidebar-accent-foreground: oklch(0.205 0 0);
-  --sidebar-border: oklch(0.922 0 0);
-  --sidebar-ring: oklch(0.708 0 0);
+  --border: oklch(0.9 0.014 75);
+  --input: oklch(0.9 0.014 75);
+  --ring: oklch(0.62 0.128 62);
+  --chart-1: oklch(0.66 0.14 60);
+  --chart-2: oklch(0.7 0.12 95);
+  --chart-3: oklch(0.58 0.09 45);
+  --chart-4: oklch(0.75 0.13 80);
+  --chart-5: oklch(0.6 0.11 30);
+  --sidebar: oklch(0.965 0.01 80);
+  --sidebar-foreground: oklch(0.255 0.012 64);
+  --sidebar-primary: oklch(0.62 0.128 62);
+  --sidebar-primary-foreground: oklch(0.99 0.006 90);
+  --sidebar-accent: oklch(0.92 0.03 70);
+  --sidebar-accent-foreground: oklch(0.3 0.035 55);
+  --sidebar-border: oklch(0.9 0.014 75);
+  --sidebar-ring: oklch(0.62 0.128 62);
+  --scrollbar-thumb: oklch(0.45 0.03 60 / 25%);
+  --scrollbar-thumb-hover: oklch(0.45 0.03 60 / 40%);
+  --scrollbar-thumb-strong: oklch(0.45 0.03 60 / 35%);
+  --scrollbar-thumb-strong-hover: oklch(0.45 0.03 60 / 55%);
+
+  /* Modal/overlay backdrop. A dim scrim behind dialogs reads the same in both
+     themes (matching shadcn's default overlay), so it is intentionally
+     theme-independent. Use with an alpha modifier, e.g. bg-scrim/60. */
+  --scrim: oklch(0 0 0);
 }
 
 .dark {
-  --background: oklch(0.145 0 0);
-  --foreground: oklch(0.985 0 0);
-  --card: oklch(0.205 0 0);
-  --card-foreground: oklch(0.985 0 0);
-  --popover: oklch(0.205 0 0);
-  --popover-foreground: oklch(0.985 0 0);
-  --primary: oklch(0.922 0 0);
-  --primary-foreground: oklch(0.205 0 0);
-  --secondary: oklch(0.269 0 0);
-  --secondary-foreground: oklch(0.985 0 0);
-  --muted: oklch(0.269 0 0);
-  --muted-foreground: oklch(0.708 0 0);
-  --accent: oklch(0.269 0 0);
-  --accent-foreground: oklch(0.985 0 0);
+  --background: oklch(0.19 0.012 58);
+  --foreground: oklch(0.955 0.008 85);
+  --card: oklch(0.232 0.014 56);
+  --card-foreground: oklch(0.955 0.008 85);
+  --popover: oklch(0.232 0.014 56);
+  --popover-foreground: oklch(0.955 0.008 85);
+  --primary: oklch(0.78 0.13 78);
+  --primary-foreground: oklch(0.24 0.03 60);
+  --secondary: oklch(0.285 0.014 54);
+  --secondary-foreground: oklch(0.955 0.008 85);
+  --muted: oklch(0.285 0.014 54);
+  --muted-foreground: oklch(0.72 0.018 72);
+  --accent: oklch(0.33 0.032 56);
+  --accent-foreground: oklch(0.955 0.008 85);
   --destructive: oklch(0.704 0.191 22.216);
-  --border: oklch(1 0 0 / 10%);
-  --input: oklch(1 0 0 / 15%);
-  --ring: oklch(0.556 0 0);
-  --chart-1: oklch(0.488 0.243 264.376);
-  --chart-2: oklch(0.696 0.17 162.48);
-  --chart-3: oklch(0.769 0.188 70.08);
-  --chart-4: oklch(0.627 0.265 303.9);
-  --chart-5: oklch(0.645 0.246 16.439);
-  --sidebar: oklch(0.205 0 0);
-  --sidebar-foreground: oklch(0.985 0 0);
-  --sidebar-primary: oklch(0.488 0.243 264.376);
-  --sidebar-primary-foreground: oklch(0.985 0 0);
-  --sidebar-accent: oklch(0.269 0 0);
-  --sidebar-accent-foreground: oklch(0.985 0 0);
-  --sidebar-border: oklch(1 0 0 / 10%);
-  --sidebar-ring: oklch(0.556 0 0);
+  --border: oklch(0.92 0.03 85 / 10%);
+  --input: oklch(0.92 0.03 85 / 15%);
+  --ring: oklch(0.78 0.13 78);
+  --chart-1: oklch(0.78 0.13 78);
+  --chart-2: oklch(0.7 0.12 50);
+  --chart-3: oklch(0.72 0.11 95);
+  --chart-4: oklch(0.65 0.13 35);
+  --chart-5: oklch(0.6 0.1 60);
+  --sidebar: oklch(0.165 0.012 58);
+  --sidebar-foreground: oklch(0.955 0.008 85);
+  --sidebar-primary: oklch(0.78 0.13 78);
+  --sidebar-primary-foreground: oklch(0.24 0.03 60);
+  --sidebar-accent: oklch(0.33 0.032 56);
+  --sidebar-accent-foreground: oklch(0.955 0.008 85);
+  --sidebar-border: oklch(0.92 0.03 85 / 10%);
+  --sidebar-ring: oklch(0.78 0.13 78);
+  --scrollbar-thumb: oklch(0.92 0.03 85 / 18%);
+  --scrollbar-thumb-hover: oklch(0.92 0.03 85 / 32%);
+  --scrollbar-thumb-strong: oklch(0.92 0.03 85 / 30%);
+  --scrollbar-thumb-strong-hover: oklch(0.92 0.03 85 / 50%);
 }
 
 @layer base {
@@ -130,7 +147,7 @@
 /* Scrollbar styling */
 * {
   scrollbar-width: thin;
-  scrollbar-color: oklch(1 0 0 / 20%) transparent;
+  scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb) transparent;
 }
 
 ::-webkit-scrollbar {
@@ -143,12 +160,40 @@
 }
 
 ::-webkit-scrollbar-thumb {
-  background: oklch(1 0 0 / 20%);
+  background: var(--scrollbar-thumb);
   border-radius: 3px;
 }
 
 ::-webkit-scrollbar-thumb:hover {
-  background: oklch(1 0 0 / 35%);
+  background: var(--scrollbar-thumb-hover);
+}
+
+/* Message cards: more prominent scrollbar than the subtle global default.
+   The descendant form reaches scroll containers we don't own (Crepe's .milkdown). */
+.scrollbar-card::-webkit-scrollbar,
+.scrollbar-card ::-webkit-scrollbar {
+  width: 8px;
+}
+
+.scrollbar-card::-webkit-scrollbar-thumb,
+.scrollbar-card ::-webkit-scrollbar-thumb {
+  background: var(--scrollbar-thumb-strong);
+  border-radius: 9999px;
+}
+
+.scrollbar-card::-webkit-scrollbar-thumb:hover,
+.scrollbar-card ::-webkit-scrollbar-thumb:hover {
+  background: var(--scrollbar-thumb-strong-hover);
+}
+
+/* Message layout: the compose editor and the posted card derive their widths
+   from one shared content column, so line wrapping while editing matches the
+   final render. The editor gutter additionally fits Crepe's block drag handle
+   (66px wide, offset 16px left of the block). */
+:root {
+  --message-content-width: 39rem;
+  --message-card-padding: 1.5rem;
+  --message-editor-gutter: 5.5rem;
 }
 
 /* Frameless window drag regions */
@@ -158,3 +203,39 @@
 .no-drag {
   -webkit-app-region: no-drag;
 }
+
+/* Recording time-limit progress bar: a single CSS animation fills the bar
+   left→right over the recording duration (duration set inline), avoiding
+   per-frame React renders. */
+@keyframes record-progress {
+  from {
+    transform: scaleX(0);
+  }
+  to {
+    transform: scaleX(1);
+  }
+}
+.record-progress {
+  transform: scaleX(0);
+  animation-name: record-progress;
+  animation-timing-function: linear;
+  animation-fill-mode: forwards;
+}
+
+/* Pulsing red glow around the recording overlay during the final warning window. */
+@keyframes record-warning-glow {
+  0%,
+  100% {
+    box-shadow:
+      inset 0 0 0 2px var(--destructive),
+      inset 0 0 24px 0 oklch(0.6 0.24 27 / 0.25);
+  }
+  50% {
+    box-shadow:
+      inset 0 0 0 3px var(--destructive),
+      inset 0 0 60px 0 oklch(0.6 0.24 27 / 0.5);
+  }
+}
+.record-warning-glow {
+  animation: record-warning-glow 1s ease-in-out infinite;
+}

js/desktop/src/web/index.html

@@ -1,10 +1,26 @@
 <!doctype html>
-<html class="dark">
+<html>
   <head>
     <meta charset="UTF-8" />
     <meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" />
     <link rel="icon" type="image/png" href="/icon.png" />
     <title>llink</title>
+    <script>
+      // Apply the stored theme before first paint to avoid a flash. Mirrors
+      // the logic in stores/theme-store.ts; defaults to dark.
+      try {
+        var m = localStorage.getItem('llink:theme');
+        var dark =
+          m === 'light'
+            ? false
+            : m === 'system'
+              ? matchMedia('(prefers-color-scheme: dark)').matches
+              : true;
+        if (dark) document.documentElement.classList.add('dark');
+      } catch (e) {
+        document.documentElement.classList.add('dark');
+      }
+    </script>
   </head>
   <body>
     <div id="root"></div>

js/desktop/src/web/renderer.tsx

@@ -1,6 +1,7 @@
 import { createRoot } from 'react-dom/client';
 import App from '@/App';
 import { initSentryRenderer } from '@/lib/sentry';
+import '@/stores/theme-store';
 import '@/styles/globals.css';
 
 initSentryRenderer();

js/mobile/app.config.ts

@@ -55,6 +55,13 @@ const config: ExpoConfig = {
           'Flowy uses your microphone to record voice messages.',
       },
     ],
+    [
+      'expo-image-picker',
+      {
+        photosPermission:
+          'Flowy uses your photo library to set your profile picture.',
+      },
+    ],
     [
       'expo-notifications',
       {

js/mobile/package.json

@@ -31,6 +31,7 @@
     "expo-device": "~8.0.10",
     "expo-file-system": "~19.0.16",
     "expo-haptics": "~15.0.7",
+    "expo-image-picker": "~17.0.8",
     "expo-notifications": "~0.32.17",
     "expo-secure-store": "~15.0.8",
     "expo-status-bar": "~3.0.9",

js/mobile/src/api/client.ts

@@ -1,3 +1,4 @@
+import { FileSystemUploadType, uploadAsync } from 'expo-file-system/legacy';
 import { appConfig } from '@/config/env';
 import { ApiError } from '@/lib/errors';
 import type { z } from 'zod';
@@ -136,6 +137,45 @@ class ApiClient {
     await this.requestVoid('PATCH', '/humans/me/settings', data);
   }
 
+  // --- Avatar ---
+
+  /**
+   * Upload a new profile picture. The endpoint takes the raw image bytes as
+   * the request body (not multipart), so we stream the file directly via
+   * expo-file-system rather than the JSON `fetch` helper.
+   */
+  async uploadAvatar(fileUri: string, mimeType: string): Promise<void> {
+    const headers: Record<string, string> = { 'Content-Type': mimeType };
+    if (this.token) {
+      headers['Authorization'] = `Bearer ${this.token}`;
+    }
+    const result = await uploadAsync(
+      `${this.baseUrl}/humans/me/avatar`,
+      fileUri,
+      {
+        httpMethod: 'PUT',
+        uploadType: FileSystemUploadType.BINARY_CONTENT,
+        headers,
+      },
+    );
+    if (result.status === 401) {
+      throw new ApiError(401, 'Unauthorized');
+    }
+    if (result.status < 200 || result.status >= 300) {
+      throw new ApiError(result.status, result.body || 'Avatar upload failed');
+    }
+  }
+
+  async deleteAvatar(): Promise<void> {
+    await this.requestVoid('DELETE', '/humans/me/avatar');
+  }
+
+  async getAvatarDownloadUrl(objectId: string): Promise<string> {
+    const response = await this.fetch('GET', `/humans/avatar/${objectId}`);
+    const data = await response.json();
+    return data.url;
+  }
+
   // --- Push notification tokens ---
 
   async registerPushToken(data: {

js/mobile/src/api/types.ts

@@ -6,6 +6,7 @@ export const HumanSchema = z.object({
   email: z.string().email(),
   email_prefix: z.string(),
   email_notifications_enabled: z.boolean(),
+  avatar_object_id: z.string().nullable().optional(),
 });
 
 export type Human = z.infer<typeof HumanSchema>;
@@ -145,14 +146,21 @@ export const TextPropertiesSchema = z.object({
 });
 export type TextProperties = z.infer<typeof TextPropertiesSchema>;
 
-export const QuestPropertiesSchema = z.object({
+export const ChecklistItemSchema = z.object({
+  text: z.string(),
+  done: z.boolean(),
+});
+export type ChecklistItem = z.infer<typeof ChecklistItemSchema>;
+
+export const TaskPropertiesSchema = z.object({
   title: z.string(),
-  description: z.string(),
-  status: z.string().optional(),
+  notes: z.string().optional(),
+  checklist: z.array(ChecklistItemSchema).optional(),
   // humanId
   assigned_to: z.string().optional(),
+  done: z.boolean(),
 });
-export type QuestProperties = z.infer<typeof QuestPropertiesSchema>;
+export type TaskProperties = z.infer<typeof TaskPropertiesSchema>;
 
 export const PaperPropertiesSchema = z.object({
   title: z.string(),
@@ -193,7 +201,7 @@ export interface ParticlePropertiesMap {
   media: MediaProperties;
   file: FileProperties;
   text: TextProperties;
-  quest: QuestProperties;
+  task: TaskProperties;
   paper: PaperProperties;
 }
 
@@ -247,8 +255,9 @@ export const ParticleSchema = z.discriminatedUnion('type', [
     ...TombstoneFields,
   }),
   ParticleBaseSchema.extend({
-    type: z.literal('quest'),
-    properties: QuestPropertiesSchema,
+    type: z.literal('task'),
+    properties: TaskPropertiesSchema,
+    reactions: ReactionsSchema,
     ...TombstoneFields,
   }),
   ParticleBaseSchema.extend({

js/mobile/src/components/Avatar.tsx

@@ -1,9 +1,10 @@
-import { Text, View } from 'react-native';
+import { Image, Text, View } from 'react-native';
 import type { Human } from '@/api/types';
+import { useAvatarUrl } from '@/hooks/use-avatar-url';
 import { resolveHumanDisplay } from '@/lib/humans';
 import { cn } from '@/lib/utils';
 
-type Size = 'xs' | 'sm' | 'md';
+type Size = 'xs' | 'sm' | 'md' | 'lg' | 'xl';
 
 interface AvatarProps {
   humanId: string | null | undefined;
@@ -13,6 +14,8 @@ interface AvatarProps {
   online?: boolean;
   /** Background ring used to separate stacked avatars from the chrome. */
   stackBg?: string;
+  /** Initials shown when the human can't be resolved (e.g. a group stream). */
+  fallbackInitials?: string;
   className?: string;
 }
 
@@ -20,12 +23,15 @@ const sizeMap: Record<Size, { box: string; text: string; ring: number }> = {
   xs: { box: 'h-6 w-6', text: 'text-[9px]', ring: 1.5 },
   sm: { box: 'h-9 w-9', text: 'text-xs', ring: 2 },
   md: { box: 'h-10 w-10', text: 'text-sm', ring: 2 },
+  lg: { box: 'h-16 w-16', text: 'text-xl', ring: 2.5 },
+  xl: { box: 'h-24 w-24', text: 'text-3xl', ring: 3 },
 };
 
 /**
- * Initials avatar with optional online ring (green) and an optional outer
- * stack ring used to visually separate overlapping avatars on a busy chrome.
- * Matches desktop's avatar + presence pattern (`ring-2 ring-green-500`).
+ * Human avatar: renders the profile picture when one is set (resolved to a
+ * signed URL via React Query), otherwise initials. Supports an optional online
+ * ring (green) and an outer stack separator ring used to keep overlapping
+ * avatars distinct on busy chrome. Matches desktop's avatar + presence pattern.
  */
 export function Avatar({
   humanId,
@@ -33,15 +39,22 @@ export function Avatar({
   size = 'sm',
   online = false,
   stackBg,
+  fallbackInitials,
   className,
 }: AvatarProps) {
-  const { initials } = resolveHumanDisplay(humanId, humans);
+  const display = resolveHumanDisplay(humanId, humans);
+  const human = humanId ? humans?.find((h) => h.id === humanId) : undefined;
+  const avatarUrl = useAvatarUrl(human?.avatar_object_id);
   const dims = sizeMap[size];
+  const initials =
+    display.exists || fallbackInitials === undefined
+      ? display.initials
+      : fallbackInitials;
 
   return (
     <View
       className={cn(
-        'bg-black/15 items-center justify-center rounded-full',
+        'bg-black/15 items-center justify-center overflow-hidden rounded-full',
         dims.box,
         className,
       )}
@@ -52,9 +65,13 @@ export function Avatar({
         borderColor: online ? '#22c55e' : (stackBg ?? 'transparent'),
       }}
     >
-      <Text className={cn('text-white font-semibold', dims.text)}>
-        {initials}
-      </Text>
+      {avatarUrl ? (
+        <Image source={{ uri: avatarUrl }} className="h-full w-full" />
+      ) : (
+        <Text className={cn('text-white font-semibold', dims.text)}>
+          {initials}
+        </Text>
+      )}
     </View>
   );
 }

js/mobile/src/components/MarkdownBody.tsx

@@ -0,0 +1,165 @@
+import { Fragment, type ReactNode } from 'react';
+import { Platform, type ViewStyle } from 'react-native';
+import { Renderer, useMarkdown, type MarkedStyles } from 'react-native-marked';
+
+// Shared markdown rendering for text and paper particles. Mirrors the desktop
+// Crepe palette (markdown-editor.css `--crepe-*`) so a message reads the same
+// on both surfaces: white-on-transparent text, a blue accent, pink inline
+// code, and a near-opaque dark surface behind code blocks and tables.
+//
+// Known gap vs desktop: fenced code blocks aren't syntax-highlighted (Crepe
+// uses CodeMirror; react-native-marked only exposes the language tag). They
+// render as plain monospace on the dark surface, which is acceptable for v1.
+const TEXT_COLOR = 'rgba(255,255,255,0.92)';
+const ACCENT = '#60a5fa';
+const SURFACE = 'rgba(24,24,28,0.96)';
+const OUTLINE = 'rgba(255,255,255,0.2)';
+const MONO = Platform.OS === 'ios' ? 'Menlo' : 'monospace';
+
+// react-native-marked doesn't render GFM task-list checkboxes (marked strips
+// the `[ ]`/`[x]` into token flags the parser ignores), so a write/read drift
+// shows up as bullets with no box. Swap the marker for a checkbox glyph before
+// parsing — read-only, matching desktop's bullet-free checkboxes.
+const TASK_ITEM_RE = /^(\s*)[-*+] \[([ xX])\] /gm;
+
+function withTaskCheckboxes(markdown: string): string {
+  return markdown.replace(
+    TASK_ITEM_RE,
+    (_match, indent: string, mark: string) =>
+      `${indent}${mark === ' ' ? '☐' : '☑'} `,
+  );
+}
+
+const MARKDOWN_THEME = {
+  colors: {
+    text: TEXT_COLOR,
+    link: ACCENT,
+    code: SURFACE,
+    border: OUTLINE,
+  },
+};
+
+const MARKDOWN_STYLES: MarkedStyles = {
+  text: { color: TEXT_COLOR, fontSize: 18, lineHeight: 28 },
+  li: { color: TEXT_COLOR, fontSize: 18, lineHeight: 28 },
+  strong: { fontWeight: '700' },
+  em: { fontStyle: 'italic' },
+  strikethrough: {
+    textDecorationLine: 'line-through',
+    color: 'rgba(255,255,255,0.6)',
+  },
+  // fontStyle "normal" cancels react-native-marked's italic-by-default for
+  // links and inline code (desktop renders neither italic).
+  link: { color: ACCENT, fontStyle: 'normal' },
+  // borderBottomWidth 0 removes the library's default heading underline rule,
+  // which desktop's headings don't have.
+  h1: {
+    color: '#ffffff',
+    fontSize: 28,
+    lineHeight: 34,
+    fontWeight: '700',
+    marginTop: 8,
+    marginBottom: 8,
+    borderBottomWidth: 0,
+  },
+  h2: {
+    color: '#ffffff',
+    fontSize: 24,
+    lineHeight: 30,
+    fontWeight: '700',
+    marginTop: 8,
+    marginBottom: 6,
+    borderBottomWidth: 0,
+  },
+  h3: {
+    color: '#ffffff',
+    fontSize: 20,
+    lineHeight: 26,
+    fontWeight: '600',
+    marginTop: 6,
+    marginBottom: 4,
+  },
+  h4: {
+    color: '#ffffff',
+    fontSize: 18,
+    lineHeight: 24,
+    fontWeight: '600',
+    marginTop: 6,
+    marginBottom: 4,
+  },
+  h5: {
+    color: '#ffffff',
+    fontSize: 16,
+    lineHeight: 22,
+    fontWeight: '600',
+    marginTop: 4,
+    marginBottom: 2,
+  },
+  h6: {
+    color: 'rgba(255,255,255,0.7)',
+    fontSize: 15,
+    lineHeight: 20,
+    fontWeight: '600',
+    marginTop: 4,
+    marginBottom: 2,
+  },
+  codespan: {
+    color: '#fca5a5',
+    fontFamily: MONO,
+    fontStyle: 'normal',
+    backgroundColor: 'rgba(255,255,255,0.1)',
+  },
+  code: {
+    backgroundColor: SURFACE,
+    borderColor: OUTLINE,
+    borderWidth: 1,
+    borderRadius: 8,
+    padding: 12,
+    marginVertical: 6,
+  },
+  blockquote: {
+    borderLeftWidth: 3,
+    borderLeftColor: OUTLINE,
+    paddingLeft: 12,
+    marginVertical: 6,
+    opacity: 0.85,
+  },
+  // hr is left to the library default, which already draws a 1px rule in the
+  // themed border color (OUTLINE).
+  table: { borderWidth: 1, borderColor: OUTLINE, marginVertical: 6 },
+  tableRow: { borderColor: OUTLINE },
+  tableCell: { borderColor: OUTLINE, padding: 8 },
+};
+
+// react-native-marked feeds fenced code blocks the `em` (italic, proportional)
+// text style, so out of the box code renders italic in the body font. Override
+// `code` to apply a monospace, non-italic style instead — matching desktop's
+// code blocks.
+const CODE_TEXT_STYLE = {
+  color: TEXT_COLOR,
+  fontFamily: MONO,
+  fontSize: 15,
+  lineHeight: 22,
+};
+
+class MarkdownRenderer extends Renderer {
+  code(text: string, language?: string, containerStyle?: ViewStyle): ReactNode {
+    return super.code(text, language, containerStyle, CODE_TEXT_STYLE);
+  }
+}
+
+const MARKDOWN_RENDERER = new MarkdownRenderer();
+
+/**
+ * Renders GFM markdown using the shared Flowy palette. `useMarkdown` returns an
+ * array of block nodes; we splat them into a Fragment so they nest cleanly
+ * inside a parent ScrollView (vs. the library's own FlatList-based component).
+ */
+export function MarkdownBody({ content }: { content: string }) {
+  const nodes = useMarkdown(withTaskCheckboxes(content), {
+    renderer: MARKDOWN_RENDERER,
+    theme: MARKDOWN_THEME,
+    styles: MARKDOWN_STYLES,
+  });
+  return <Fragment>{nodes}</Fragment>;
+}

js/mobile/src/features/compose/ComposeDock.tsx

@@ -1,6 +1,11 @@
 import { useCallback, useEffect, useState } from 'react';
 import { Pressable, Text, View } from 'react-native';
-import { Mic, Type as TypeIcon, Video as VideoIcon } from 'lucide-react-native';
+import {
+  ListTodo,
+  Mic,
+  Type as TypeIcon,
+  Video as VideoIcon,
+} from 'lucide-react-native';
 import * as Haptics from 'expo-haptics';
 import { useCameraPermissions, useMicrophonePermissions } from 'expo-camera';
 import { toast } from 'sonner-native';
@@ -8,13 +13,18 @@ import { cn } from '@/lib/utils';
 import { useEvent } from '@/hooks/use-event';
 import { usePlaybackPauseStore } from '@/stores/playback-pause-store';
 import { useAuthStore } from '@/stores/auth-store';
-import { createTextParticle, uploadMediaParticle } from '@/lib/upload';
+import {
+  createTaskParticle,
+  createTextParticle,
+  uploadMediaParticle,
+} from '@/lib/upload';
 import type { ParticlePath } from '@/lib/particle-path';
 import {
   useStreamComposingBroadcastOptional,
   type ComposingMode,
 } from '@/features/stream-view/stream-presence-context';
 import { TextComposeModal } from './TextComposeModal';
+import { TaskComposeSheet } from './TaskComposeSheet';
 import { VideoRecordingOverlay } from './VideoRecordingOverlay';
 import { AudioRecordingOverlay } from './AudioRecordingOverlay';
 import { ReviewSheet } from './ReviewSheet';
@@ -48,6 +58,12 @@ interface ComposeDockProps {
   networkId: string;
   targetPath: ParticlePath;
   silentPresence?: boolean;
+  /**
+   * Whether to show the task compose button. Disabled in the new-stream flow,
+   * where a stream's first particle must be text or media (a task can't open a
+   * stream — it's added once the stream exists).
+   */
+  allowTask?: boolean;
   submitMedia?: (params: SubmitMediaParams) => Promise<void>;
   submitText?: (content: string) => Promise<void>;
   /**
@@ -63,6 +79,7 @@ export function ComposeDock({
   networkId,
   targetPath,
   silentPresence = false,
+  allowTask = true,
   submitMedia,
   submitText: submitTextOverride,
   onParticleCreated,
@@ -72,6 +89,7 @@ export function ComposeDock({
   const [mode, setMode] = useState<RecordingMode>('video');
   const [ui, setUi] = useState<ComposeUiState>({ kind: 'idle' });
   const [textOpen, setTextOpen] = useState(false);
+  const [taskOpen, setTaskOpen] = useState(false);
 
   const [camPerm, requestCamPerm] = useCameraPermissions();
   const [micPerm, requestMicPerm] = useMicrophonePermissions();
@@ -79,13 +97,13 @@ export function ComposeDock({
   // Tell StreamView to fully unmount its expo-video player while we record.
   // That player otherwise holds the iOS AVAudioSession and crashes the camera.
   const setComposing = usePlaybackPauseStore((s) => s.setComposing);
-  const isComposing = ui.kind !== 'idle' || textOpen;
+  const isComposing = ui.kind !== 'idle' || textOpen || taskOpen;
   useEffect(() => {
     setComposing(isComposing);
     return () => setComposing(false);
   }, [isComposing, setComposing]);
 
-  useComposingBroadcast({ ui, textOpen, silent: silentPresence });
+  useComposingBroadcast({ ui, textOpen, taskOpen, silent: silentPresence });
 
   const ensurePermissions = useCallback(
     async (forVideo: boolean): Promise<boolean> => {
@@ -187,6 +205,20 @@ export function ComposeDock({
     void Haptics.notificationAsync(Haptics.NotificationFeedbackType.Success);
   });
 
+  const submitTask = useEvent(
+    async ({ title, notes }: { title: string; notes?: string }) => {
+      if (!userId) throw new Error('Not signed in.');
+      const particleId = await createTaskParticle({
+        targetPath,
+        title,
+        notes,
+        createdByHumanId: userId,
+      });
+      onParticleCreated?.(particleId);
+      void Haptics.notificationAsync(Haptics.NotificationFeedbackType.Success);
+    },
+  );
+
   const dockHidden =
     ui.kind === 'review' || ui.kind === 'uploading' || ui.kind === 'recording';
 
@@ -196,27 +228,31 @@ export function ComposeDock({
         <View pointerEvents="box-none" className="absolute inset-x-0 bottom-0">
           <View
             pointerEvents="box-none"
-            className="flex-row items-center justify-between px-8 pb-10"
+            className="flex-row items-center px-8 pb-10"
           >
-            <Pressable
-              onPress={() =>
-                setMode((m) => (m === 'video' ? 'audio' : 'video'))
-              }
-              disabled={ui.kind !== 'idle'}
-              accessibilityLabel={`Switch to ${
-                mode === 'video' ? 'audio' : 'video'
-              } mode`}
-              className={cn(
-                'h-11 w-11 items-center justify-center rounded-full bg-white/15',
-                ui.kind !== 'idle' && 'opacity-40',
-              )}
-            >
-              {mode === 'video' ? (
-                <VideoIcon color="white" size={20} strokeWidth={1.6} />
-              ) : (
-                <Mic color="white" size={20} strokeWidth={1.6} />
-              )}
-            </Pressable>
+            {/* Left and right clusters flex equally so the record button stays
+                centered regardless of how many side controls are present. */}
+            <View className="flex-1 flex-row items-center">
+              <Pressable
+                onPress={() =>
+                  setMode((m) => (m === 'video' ? 'audio' : 'video'))
+                }
+                disabled={ui.kind !== 'idle'}
+                accessibilityLabel={`Switch to ${
+                  mode === 'video' ? 'audio' : 'video'
+                } mode`}
+                className={cn(
+                  'h-11 w-11 items-center justify-center rounded-full bg-white/15',
+                  ui.kind !== 'idle' && 'opacity-40',
+                )}
+              >
+                {mode === 'video' ? (
+                  <VideoIcon color="white" size={20} strokeWidth={1.6} />
+                ) : (
+                  <Mic color="white" size={20} strokeWidth={1.6} />
+                )}
+              </Pressable>
+            </View>
 
             <View className="items-center">
               <Pressable
@@ -230,17 +266,33 @@ export function ComposeDock({
               <Text className="text-white/60 mt-2 text-xs">Tap to record</Text>
             </View>
 
-            <Pressable
-              onPress={() => setTextOpen(true)}
-              disabled={ui.kind !== 'idle'}
-              accessibilityLabel="Compose text"
-              className={cn(
-                'h-11 w-11 items-center justify-center rounded-full bg-white/15',
-                ui.kind !== 'idle' && 'opacity-40',
-              )}
-            >
-              <TypeIcon color="white" size={20} strokeWidth={1.6} />
-            </Pressable>
+            <View className="flex-1 flex-row items-center justify-end gap-3">
+              {allowTask ? (
+                <Pressable
+                  onPress={() => setTaskOpen(true)}
+                  disabled={ui.kind !== 'idle'}
+                  accessibilityLabel="Create task"
+                  className={cn(
+                    'h-11 w-11 items-center justify-center rounded-full bg-white/15',
+                    ui.kind !== 'idle' && 'opacity-40',
+                  )}
+                >
+                  <ListTodo color="white" size={20} strokeWidth={1.6} />
+                </Pressable>
+              ) : null}
+
+              <Pressable
+                onPress={() => setTextOpen(true)}
+                disabled={ui.kind !== 'idle'}
+                accessibilityLabel="Compose text"
+                className={cn(
+                  'h-11 w-11 items-center justify-center rounded-full bg-white/15',
+                  ui.kind !== 'idle' && 'opacity-40',
+                )}
+              >
+                <TypeIcon color="white" size={20} strokeWidth={1.6} />
+              </Pressable>
+            </View>
           </View>
         </View>
       ) : null}
@@ -277,6 +329,12 @@ export function ComposeDock({
         onClose={() => setTextOpen(false)}
         onSubmit={submitText}
       />
+
+      <TaskComposeSheet
+        open={taskOpen}
+        onClose={() => setTaskOpen(false)}
+        onSubmit={submitTask}
+      />
     </>
   );
 }
@@ -284,17 +342,23 @@ export function ComposeDock({
 function useComposingBroadcast({
   ui,
   textOpen,
+  taskOpen,
   silent,
 }: {
   ui: ComposeUiState;
   textOpen: boolean;
+  taskOpen: boolean;
   silent: boolean;
 }) {
   // null when the dock is rendered outside a stream (no presence provider).
   const broadcast = useStreamComposingBroadcastOptional();
 
   const mode: ComposingMode | null =
-    ui.kind === 'recording' ? 'recording' : textOpen ? 'typing' : null;
+    ui.kind === 'recording'
+      ? 'recording'
+      : textOpen || taskOpen
+        ? 'typing'
+        : null;
 
   useEffect(() => {
     if (silent || !broadcast) return;