AI just learned how to work on your desktop. This is a BFD.
A few weeks ago I wrote you an email telling you about what I consider the “killer app” of AI… for 2024 (RAG, an incredibly valuable technique.)
You might remember me saying:
➡️ AI Agents will be the killer app of AI in 2025 and beyond. Watch this space…
Well, here we are just a few short weeks later and AI Agents just got REAL.
Anthropic’s new Computer Use feature lets AI do more than chat with you – it can actually use a computer, opening apps, clicking buttons, and even doing simple tasks.
If you’re as excited as I am, you’ll get why this is a game-changer. Anthropic has launched a new feature called Computer Use, enabling AI to actually use a computer. Not just interact in chat – but handle real desktop tasks, like opening apps, clicking buttons, and moving through screens. The AI isn’t on your computer yet, but that step will come.
This is a huge moment. Computer Use means AI could soon help you manage everyday work tasks, leaving you with more time for strategy, creativity, and high-value projects.
It’s not fully there yet – still slow, and it makes mistakes – but what it signals is MASSIVE.
It’s tricky to set up unless you’re a bit techie, so I recorded a video demo for you to see it in action:
👉 Watch the video on LinkedIn
Now, let’s set expectations: right now, Computer Use is far from perfect. It’s slow, misses simple steps, and isn’t reliable enough for crucial work. But don’t let that fool you. This proof of concept shows us where AI is heading, and progress is happening fast. Before we know it, we’ll be able to offload a lot of repetitive work to AI.
Here’s why this matters:
- Automating repetitive tasks: AI will soon be able to handle those mundane desktop chores.
- Freeing up time: Imagine AI managing your admin tasks – from data entry to inbox sorting.
- New workflows: This opens the door to AI assisting with complex tasks, like reports and spreadsheets.
Once Computer Use reaches full potential, we could see AI handling a wider array of tasks across devices. In the future, your AI assistant might be able to open your email, summarise messages, update your calendar, or even pull together reports.
We’re not there yet – but we’re getting close.
Anthropic’s new feature hints at a future where AI is your true desktop assistant, doing the tedious work while you focus on what matters.
So, what would you offload to AI if it could handle it?
P.S. I’ve just published An Absolute Beginner’s Guide to Using AI – perfect if you’re new to AI and want to see how it can make everyday tasks easier. Full of clear tips and practical examples, it’s designed to help you get up to speed, no tech skills needed. Check it out here if you’re ready to put AI to work for you, and feel free to reach out with questions!
