Anthropic’s Claude gains computer control as AI starts running your screen

Anthropic has taken a significant step forward by enabling its AI, Claude, to directly interact with your computer. Users can now authorize Claude to perform a range of tasks, including opening files, browsing the web, and utilizing developer tools. This expansion of functionality comes through updates to the Claude Code and Claude Cowork tools, allowing the AI to operate autonomously on behalf of users. The announcement was made via a post on Claude's account on X (formerly Twitter), which stated, "You can now enable Claude to use your computer to complete tasks. It opens your apps, navigates your browser, fills in spreadsheets—anything you'd do sitting at your desk." This capability marks a significant evolution from being just a chatbot to a comprehensive task executor. When the computer control feature is activated, Claude utilizes connectors for supported applications like Google Workspace and Slack to accomplish tasks. In cases where a specific connector is unavailable, Claude demonstrates its adaptability by searching for alternative methods to complete the assigned tasks. Users will receive notifications before any major actions are taken, allowing them to monitor Claude's activities in real time or review the outcomes after the task is finished. This functionality enables Claude to perform a variety of actions, from simple file management to more complex software operations. Anthropic has emphasized that Claude can mimic user interactions, stating, "It can point, click, and navigate like you would to do everything from opening and editing files to handling complex software tasks. And with Dispatch, you can instruct Claude from your phone." To access these advanced features, users need to update both the Claude Desktop and mobile applications, ensuring they are paired for efficient task management. Currently, this innovative capability is available to Claude Pro and Claude Max subscribers on macOS, with plans for future support on Windows x64. The company is actively testing this feature in a research preview and is gathering user feedback to refine the experience further.