Claude AI Adds Slack, Canva and Workplace Apps

Getting work done with AI just got a whole lot easier thanks to Anthropic's latest update to Claude.

Starting this week, Claude users can now activate interactive workplace apps directly inside their chatbot conversations. The first batch includes popular tools like Slack, Canva, Figma, Box, and Clay, with Salesforce coming soon.

Here's what makes this exciting: instead of copying and pasting between windows, you can now ask Claude to send a Slack message, generate a chart in Canva, or pull up files from your company's Box account. The AI works directly with logged-in versions of these services, making collaboration feel seamless.

"Analyzing data, designing content, and managing projects all work better with a dedicated visual interface," Anthropic explained in their announcement. Combined with Claude's intelligence, users can work and iterate faster than ever before.

The feature builds on something called the Model Context Protocol, an open standard that Anthropic introduced in 2024. OpenAI uses the same system for their apps feature, which launched in October. This kind of collaboration between AI companies means better tools for everyone.

The timing couldn't be better. Last week, Anthropic launched Claude Cowork, an agent tool that handles complex, multi-step tasks. Soon, these two features will work together, meaning Cowork could update your marketing graphics in Figma or analyze new data from your cloud storage automatically.

The Ripple Effect

This update represents something bigger than just convenient shortcuts. When AI tools integrate smoothly with the apps people already use every day, it lowers the barrier for teams of all sizes to benefit from cutting-edge technology.

Small businesses that couldn't afford specialized tech support can now automate routine tasks. Creative teams can spend less time on logistics and more time actually creating. Remote workers can collaborate more efficiently across time zones.

The feature is available now to Pro, Max, Team, and Enterprise subscribers at claude.ai/directory. Anthropic encourages users to start with limited permissions and monitor the AI's work, especially around sensitive information.

The AI revolution doesn't have to mean learning entirely new systems or abandoning familiar tools. Sometimes progress looks like making the technology we already love work better together.