AI Productivity: Anthropic Launches Claude Duet for Business Users

The market for artificial intelligence helpers is crowded, with new tools launching almost weekly. Amid this rush, Anthropic has introduced Claude Duet, a new application designed to compete with established players like Meta Muse, OpenAI Dots, and Grok Bot.

The company positions Duet specifically for professionals and small businesses. It aims to automate workflows and manage complex tasks rather than serve as a casual personal companion. Anthropic explicitly notes that Duet is not built for handling simple errands or booking tickets. It also does not display its browser activity in real-time, a feature found in some competing tools. Instead, the agent focuses on building daily briefings, creating data dashboards, and suggesting actions based on user information.

Like other modern agents, Duet operates in the background using its own virtual machine. This allows users to continue their work while the AI processes requests. It will return for approval only when necessary. This launch coincides with a broader industry shift from basic chat assistants to agents that actively work on behalf of users. Many competitors are also pivoting toward business use cases. Meta’s Muse includes a version for small businesses with app connections, and OpenAI’s Dots integrates with professional tools.

Duet is built on the Claude Opus 5.5 model. It can proactively deliver recommendations while monitoring ongoing tasks. The app connects to more than 6,000 plugins and connectors available in the Claude Marketplace. It also supports online purchases through Stripe’s Link digital wallet or Shopify’s Shop Pay. Anthropic states that sensitive steps, such as payments, require explicit user approval. The agent will not trade securities or move money between accounts without instruction.

To protect user data, Anthropic released a new classifier for the platform. This tool checks each message to prevent sensitive information from leaking out. By default, Duet will decline requests asking for credit card numbers or government identification numbers. This security layer is intended to build trust with business users who handle confidential data.

Claude Duet is currently available as an app on iOS and Android devices. It is also accessible on the web through Claude.ai for Pro and Max customers. The service is in a research preview phase. Users must join a waitlist to gain access to the new tool.