Claude Takes Control: New AI Feature Can Run Tasks Directly On Your Computer

Anthropic’s Claude has introduced a new feature that allows its AI to perform tasks directly on users’ computers. 

This capability, part of the Claude Cowork and Claude Code applications, is available in research preview for Claude Pro and Max subscribers and enhances functionality through Dispatch integration.

Claude's computer-use feature enables the AI to control browsers, keyboards, and screens, offering a hands-free experience. It prioritizes using service connectors such as Slack or Google Calendar, but can navigate directly when they are unavailable. Users must grant explicit permission for each action and safeguards are in place to minimize risks.

The feature is currently exclusive to macOS and requires the desktop app to be running. While it aims to streamline tasks, the developers acknowledge it may not always be flawless, and users should avoid handling sensitive data. 

The feature is designed to assist with tasks such as checking emails or running reports, even when the user is away from the computer.

Dispatch, released last week, allows users to maintain continuous conversations with Claude from any device. This integration lets users assign tasks from their phones and review the results on their computers, making the AI’s new computer capabilities even more versatile.

Claude’s development team is seeking feedback to refine the feature, understanding that complex tasks might require multiple attempts. The goal is to identify strengths and areas for improvement, similar to the approach taken with the earlier release of Claude Cowork.

Bumps in the Road for Anthropic and Claude

This new launch comes after Claude's platform experienced a series of technical disruptions, rattling users earlier this month.

The White House and Anthropic have been locked in a months-long dispute over the potential military use of the company's AI systems. Anthropic filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Defense, escalating its ongoing clash with the Trump administration.

The company has been under fire for its AI models being used by the Pentagon. Tensions stem from concerns about national security and from the Defense Department under Trump seeking unrestricted military use of AI.

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