Anthropic has released a new AI tool, Cowork, that allows users to collaborate with the AI model Claude directly in their computer files. Not just via text chat. The tool is based on the same technology as Claude Code, but is designed for non-programmers.
In Cowork, users can give Claude access to a selected folder on their computer. The AI can then read, create, and edit files, for example, sorting downloads, compiling expenses in a spreadsheet, or writing reports based on notes. Claude then acts more independently than in normal conversations and reports back to the user step by step. Cowork can also utilize Claude connections to external data sources and the Chrome browser.
However, Anthropic warns of risks such as incorrect instructions and “prompt injections” (attempts to manipulate the AI via text content), which can lead to deleted files, for example. Users are therefore advised to be cautious and give as clear instructions as possible.
