Claude can now use your computer

TL;DR Highlight

Anthropic added direct computer control to Claude. It can now open apps, browse the web, and fill out spreadsheets — handling real desktop tasks on your behalf.

Who Should Read

Developers or professionals looking to automate repetitive computer tasks. Especially useful if you're on the Claude Pro/Max plan and working on macOS.

Core Mechanics

It's currently in Research Preview — you can enable direct computer control in Claude Cowork and Claude Code. Since it's an early release rather than GA, it may not be perfect, and complex tasks might need a retry.
Claude first tries to use existing app integrations like Slack and Calendar. It only asks for permission to directly control your screen when there's no connector available. In other words, it operates on a permission-based model rather than having free rein.
You can use 'Dispatch' mode — give instructions from your phone, walk away, and your desktop handles the work. Come back and the results are ready.
Recurring tasks like morning email scans or Friday report generation can be set up once and Claude handles them on schedule. Conversation context persists, so you don't need to re-explain every time.
Currently available only on Pro and Max plans, macOS only. You need to update the desktop app and pair it with the mobile app.

Evidence

Anthropic explicitly stated 'It won't always work perfectly, and complex tasks could need a second try.' They're officially acknowledging imperfections and releasing early to gather user feedback.
The current scope covers general desktop tasks like opening apps, web browsing, and filling spreadsheets. No specific success rates or benchmark numbers have been published.
A scenario was demonstrated where you dispatch work from mobile and find completed tasks when you return to your computer, integrated with the Claude Cowork feature.

How to Apply

Automated recurring reports: Set up something like 'Every Friday at 5 PM, summarize this week's Slack messages into Google Sheets' and it runs automatically each week. Requires Pro/Max plan + macOS + latest desktop app.
Delegate work while away: Dispatch from your phone's Claude app — 'Research meeting materials and draft a PPT' — and come back to find results on your desktop. (Complex tasks may need verification since it's Research Preview.)
Automate legacy apps without connectors: Even internal tools or legacy apps without official Slack/Calendar-style integrations can be controlled via direct screen manipulation. Note that user permission is required before execution, so it's better suited for semi-automation than fully unattended scenarios.

Terminology

Research PreviewAn early access stage before general availability. Features are deployed in a limited environment while still incomplete, primarily to collect user feedback.

Computer UseAI directly controlling apps on your computer as if operating a mouse and keyboard, rather than through API integrations. GUI-level automation.

DispatchAn async task delegation mode in Claude Cowork where you give instructions from a mobile device and Claude processes them in the background on your desktop.

Claude CoworkAnthropic's collaboration feature where Claude can access your apps/files or directly operate your computer to complete tasks on your behalf.