Anthropic Introduces In Chat Apps for Claude Users

Published: 26 Jan 2026

Anthropic has announced a new capability that allows Claude users to access interactive applications directly inside the chatbot. This update is designed to make Claude more useful for professional and enterprise-level work.

With this feature, users can open and use supported apps without leaving the Claude interface, making workflows faster and more visual.

Workplace Tools Lead the First App Rollout

The first set of apps focuses heavily on business and productivity use cases. These tools connect Claude to live user accounts, allowing real actions instead of simple suggestions.

Key points include

Supported apps at launch include Slack, Canva, Figma, Box, and Clay
Salesforce integration is planned for a future update
Users can send messages, work with designs, generate visuals, and access cloud files from within Claude

Anthropic says these tools combine visual interfaces with Claude’s reasoning abilities to help teams move faster and collaborate more effectively.

Access Limited to Paid Subscribers

The new app feature is not available to free users. Only subscribers on paid plans can enable and use these tools.

Key points

Available for Pro, Max, Team, and Enterprise plans
Apps can be enabled through the official Claude app directory
Each app requires the user to be logged in and grant permission

Built on an Open Integration Standard

The app system uses the Model Context Protocol, an open framework introduced by Anthropic in 2024. This same protocol also powers similar third party tool systems from other AI companies, including OpenAI.

The shared standard allows developers to build tools that work across different AI platforms while keeping user context intact.

Future Integration with Claude Cowork

Anthropic recently launched Claude Cowork, an advanced agent designed to handle complex, multi step tasks. While apps do not yet work inside Cowork, the company confirmed that support is on the way.

Once integrated, Cowork could

Edit design files using Figma
Pull updated data from Box or other cloud services
Assist with ongoing projects across connected tools

Safety and Permission Warnings

Anthropic has also issued guidance on responsible use. Because agent-driven systems can behave unpredictably, users are encouraged to closely supervise Claude’s actions.

The company advises users to

Avoid giving access to sensitive or personal data
Limit permissions to only what is necessary
Use dedicated folders instead of full system access

Anthropic emphasizes that thoughtful permission management is essential as AI tools become more autonomous and deeply integrated into daily work.

Sources:

TechCrunch article