diff --git a/src/agents/tools/nodes-utils.ts b/src/agents/tools/nodes-utils.ts
index 6350294eb55..8dbda644ef6 100644
--- a/src/agents/tools/nodes-utils.ts
+++ b/src/agents/tools/nodes-utils.ts
@@ -45,7 +45,10 @@ function pickDefaultNode(nodes: NodeListNode[]): NodeListNode | null {
     return local[0];
   }
 
-  return null;
+  // Multiple candidates — pick the first connected canvas-capable node.
+  // For A2UI and other canvas operations, any node works since multi-node
+  // setups broadcast surfaces across devices.
+  return candidates[0] ?? null;
 }
 
 export async function listNodes(opts: GatewayCallOptions): Promise<NodeListNode[]> {