Anthropic revealed on Monday that it has upgraded its Claude Code and Claude Cowork applications to perform operations directly on users' devices. This enhancement enables the AI systems to access documents, navigate web browsers, and operate development utilities.

Once activated, the Claude AI assistant will initially favor integrations with compatible platforms like Google Workspace or Slack. In cases where no such integration exists, the tool can proceed to complete the requested action independently. The system is programmed to seek user approval prior to initiating these steps, though Anthropic advises against employing the function for confidential data to minimize risks.

The computer interaction functionality will first roll out to participants in the Claude Pro and Claude Max plans running on macOS systems. As part of an experimental phase, the capability remains subject to refinements informed by input from Anthropic's community. Additionally, it integrates with the company's Dispatch system, enabling seamless, ongoing dialogues with the AI across mobile and computer interfaces.

Launched back in January, Claude Cowork serves as a user-friendly variant of the Claude Code AI assistant originally tailored for developers.