A new AI helper for work tasks launches on mobile

For professionals and small business owners, the daily grind of managing emails, data, and administrative duties just got a new digital partner. Anthropic has introduced Claude Duet, a mobile and web application designed to handle specific professional workflows rather than general personal errands. The app is currently available in a research preview for Pro and Max customers, though users must join a waitlist to gain access.

The new tool distinguishes itself by focusing strictly on work-oriented automation. Unlike other personal assistants that might book flights or show users a live view of their browsing activity, Duet is built to construct daily briefings and create data dashboards. It analyzes user information to suggest relevant actions, allowing professionals to stay ahead of their schedules without manual input. This targeted approach sets it apart from competitors that aim to be all-purpose life managers.

Under the hood, the agent operates within its own virtual machine, allowing it to complete tasks in the background while the user focuses on other responsibilities. It will pause and request approval only when a decision is required. This background processing is powered by the Claude Opus 5.5 model, which integrates with more than 6,000 connectors and plugins available through the Claude Marketplace. This extensive connectivity enables the software to interact with a wide array of professional tools and services.

Financial transactions are a key feature, yet they come with built-in safeguards. The app can make online purchases using Stripe’s Link digital wallet or Shopify’s Shop Pay. However, Anthropic emphasizes that sensitive steps require explicit user approval. To maintain financial boundaries, the agent is not authorized to trade securities or transfer funds between different bank accounts, ensuring that high-stakes financial movements remain under human control.

Security concerns are addressed through a new message classifier that scans communications to prevent sensitive data from leaking. By default, the system is programmed to decline requests that ask for credit card numbers or government identification numbers. This layer of protection is intended to build trust among business users who share proprietary information with their digital assistants.

The launch of Duet reflects a broader shift in the artificial intelligence market. The focus is moving away from simple conversational assistants toward autonomous agents that can execute complex workflows on behalf of the user. While rivals like Meta and OpenAI have released their own business-oriented tools, Anthropic is entering the crowded space with a clear emphasis on professional utility and secure, background-driven task management.

As the research preview continues, the app will be accessible on iOS, Android, and via the Claude.ai website. The company is positioning this release as a strategic move to capture the attention of business users who need reliable automation without the clutter of personal lifestyle features.