Anthropic has introduced significant enhancements to its AI assistant, Claude, with the rollout of a new extension to the Model Context Protocol (MCP). This open-source protocol now allows users to interact with various applications directly within the Claude chatbot, making tasks like drafting Slack messages and creating presentations in Canva more seamless and efficient. Users will no longer need to switch tabs; they can engage with applications directly as they chat.
The newly integrated apps include popular tools such as Asana, Figma, Slack, and Canva, which allows for greater interactivity. Previous versions of Claude enabled users to connect to these tools, but interaction was limited to receiving text responses. Now, users can customize Canva presentations in real time, format Slack messages with previews, create interactive charts using Hex or Amplitude, and manage projects through Asana or monday.com. Additional integrations will soon include Salesforce tools like Data 360, Agentforce, and Customer 360 apps.
This shift towards in-app interactivity marks a significant evolution for AI platforms, suggesting a future where they function more like comprehensive operating systems rather than stand-alone tools. Similar approaches have been adopted by popular messaging apps such as Telegram and Discord. Claude’s developments mirror advancements made by ChatGPT, which launched its app ecosystem last year.
The Model Context Protocol underpins Claude’s new capabilities, providing a framework for integrating apps within AI products. This flexibility allows other AI tools to benefit from MCP, enhancing usability across the board. Initially created at Anthropic in 2024, MCP has gained traction, being adopted by prominent tech companies such as OpenAI and Google. Anthropic has also contributed it to the Linux Foundation, alongside establishing the Agentic AI Foundation with other major tech players to promote advancements in open-source agentic AI.
This evolution in AI interaction is a hopeful indicator of increasing efficiency in workflows across industries, making technology more accessible and integrated for everyday users.