Anthropic, the maker of chatbot Claude, has released a valuable new experimental feature T … Our users are now able to use customized interactive applications embedded directly in the chat window! This advanced functionality is designed to help create a more intuitive workflow and boost productivity across the registry and other professional environments. The announcement follows closely on the heels of OpenAI releasing their own app integration platform back in October.
Today’s surprise released feature, called Claude Cowork, allows users to assign complex, multi-stage activities that leverage large, complex, open-ended datasets. Cowork runs on top of Claude Code. It functions as a one-stop-agent-shop, simplifying intricate project management and improving data processing. Whether via sending Slack messages, automatically generating charts, or getting cloud files, users can do all of this and more depending on which applications they’ve turned on.
These interactive apps will not be included at launch in Cowork. Anthropic has assured that this integration is “coming soon.” The new applications, the company teases, have the most power when paired with Cowork. Combined, they’ll vastly improve user functionality and experiences.
For example, Anthropic’s safety documentation around Cowork recommends users keep a close eye on the agent and be careful when giving it permissions. The Cowork tool would need to be able to reach into sensitive areas like cloud file storage or an employee’s work projects in progress.
“Be cautious about granting access to sensitive information like financial documents, credentials, or personal records,” – the company
Eligible users can turn on the new tools via the platform at claude.ai/directory. Each app provides a permissively logged-in instance of the service, which Claude is able to access. This level of integration is grounded in the Model Context Protocol, an open standard first released by Anthropic in early 2024.
With Cowork you’ll be able to chitchat without missing a beat in Slack. It even updates marketing graphics in Figma and pulls the most current data from the company’s Box instance. This new capability is the latest addition to an ongoing Workplace campaign to make everyday workplace tasks more efficient.
“Analyzing data, designing content, and managing projects all work better with a dedicated visual interface,” – Anthropic
The company wants users to think about making a special working folder for Claude to fast-track access while improving safety.
“Consider creating a dedicated working folder for Claude rather than granting broad access,” – the company
Nonprofits, just like every other organization, are searching for better and easier ways to work together and get things done. By combining interactive apps with Claude Cowork, companies have a tremendous opportunity to increase productivity in hybrid workplaces.
“Combined with Claude’s intelligence, you can work and iterate faster than either could offer alone,” – Anthropic