Claude Code can now perform computer use tasks in the background on Mac, an upgrade that turns AI-driven automation into a genuine multitasking tool. Anthropic announced the feature today, making it available on macOS for Pro and Max subscribers.
What Background Computer Use Does
Computer use is not new for Claude on the desktop, but the ability to run it in the background marks a meaningful step forward. With the update, Claude can operate your Mac while you focus on other work, clicking, typing, and opening applications just as a person would.
The capability is available across both Claude Cowork and Claude Code. Users can assign a task on the desktop and let Claude carry it out on its own, without surrendering control of the cursor for the duration of the job.
Why Running in the Background Matters
AI-driven computer use has traditionally been less practical because it required handing the cursor over to the agent, effectively locking users out of their own machines while a task ran. Moving the process into the background removes that limitation and unlocks true multitasking on the Mac.
Anthropic is not the first to bring this approach to Apple hardware. Earlier in the year, OpenAI’s Codex, later folded into ChatGPT, introduced background computer use on the Mac. The latest update brings Anthropic’s Claude app in line with that functionality.
Availability
Background computer use for Claude Code is limited to macOS at launch and is offered to Pro and Max customers. The feature works within both Claude Code and Claude Cowork, giving subscribers a way to delegate desktop tasks while continuing to work uninterrupted.
Source
Image: 9to5mac.com
