Anthropic Expands Claude’s Capabilities with Tool Integrations and Advanced Research Features
Anthropic has unveiled new features for its AI assistant, Claude, aimed at enhancing workplace productivity. The launch includes “Integrations,” which allows Claude to connect directly with popular work tools, and an upgraded “Advanced Research” mode for deeper investigations.
NEWS
5/1/20251 min read
Claude Integrations: Connecting AI to Your Workflow
The Integrations feature builds on Anthropic’s Model Context Protocol (MCP), simplifying the process of securely linking Claude to apps and desktop tools. Users can now connect Claude to a growing list of work software, including Jira, Confluence, Zapier, Cloudflare, Intercom, Asana, Square, Sentry, PayPal, Linear, and Plaid, with Stripe and GitLab integrations coming soon.
This connectivity provides Claude with contextual understanding of projects, tasks, and organizational knowledge. For example, it can draft product specs, summarize lengthy documents, or create linked Jira tickets. In customer communication tools like Intercom, Claude can analyze chat histories, generate bug reports, and identify trends, streamlining workflows from feedback to resolution.
Anthropic emphasizes the ease of creating custom integrations, claiming developers can set up connections to internal systems or specialized software in about 30 minutes using their tools or platforms like Cloudflare.
Advanced Research: Digging Deeper with AI
Claude’s research capabilities have also been enhanced with an “Advanced Research” mode. This feature breaks down complex queries into smaller components, investigates each thoroughly across connected apps, Google Workspace files, and the web, and compiles a detailed report. While reports may take 5 to 45 minutes, the time saved compared to manual research is significant.
Transparency is a key focus, as Claude provides direct links to its sources, ensuring users can verify the information.
Availability and Impact
These features are currently in beta for Anthropic’s Max, Team, and Enterprise plans, with Pro plan access coming soon. Additionally, Claude’s standard web search is now available globally for all paid plans.
Anthropic’s updates position Claude as a practical tool for professionals, integrating seamlessly with existing workflows and offering advanced analytical capabilities. By bridging AI with workplace tools and enhancing research functions, Claude is evolving from a novelty to a vital asset in modern work environments.