Anthropic Turns Claude Into a Workplace Control Center

Anthropic has announced a new feature that allows users to run interactive apps directly inside the Claude chatbot interface. The update enables Claude to connect with third-party tools and services in real time, making productivity easier than before.

Workplace-Focused Apps Launch First

In line with Anthropic’s enterprise-oriented strategy, the first batch of supported apps focuses on workplace productivity. These include Slack, Canva, Figma, Box, and Clay. Anthropic said a Salesforce integration is also planned.

Each app runs as a logged-in instance that Claude can access. Depending on which tools are enabled, users can send Slack messages, generate charts, design content, or retrieve cloud-based files without leaving the chatbot.

Anthropic said tasks such as data analysis, content design, and project management benefit from visual interfaces, and combining these tools with Claude’s capabilities allows faster iteration than using either separately.

The app’s feature is available to Pro, Max, Team, and Enterprise subscribers. Free users do not have access. Eligible users can enable tools through the apps directory on Claude’s website.

Shared Integration Standard

The system closely mirrors OpenAI’s Apps feature, which launched in October and also supports interactive third-party tools. Both platforms rely on the Model Context Protocol, an open standard introduced by Anthropic in 2024.

Support for apps under the protocol launched in November, following collaboration between Anthropic and OpenAI.

Deeper Integration Coming

The new apps are expected to become more powerful when combined with Claude Cowork, Anthropic’s general-purpose agent tool launched last week. Cowork is built on Claude Code and allows users to assign multistage tasks that previously required terminal-based workflows.

With app access, Cowork could interact with cloud storage or live work projects. Anthropic gave examples such as updating a marketing graphic in Figma or pulling new datasets from a company’s Box account.

Apps are not yet available inside Cowork, but Anthropic said this integration is planned for a future update.

Safety and Access Controls Emphasized

Anthropic cautioned that agent-based systems can exhibit unpredictable behavior. In its safety documentation, the company advised users to monitor Cowork and avoid granting unnecessary permissions closely.

The company specifically warned against sharing access to sensitive materials such as financial records, credentials, or personal data. Anthropic recommended creating dedicated folders for Claude rather than providing broad system access.