Anthropic is preparing a major update to the Claude application, signalling a shift in how users will interact with its features. The primary mode of operation is now set to Cowork, which effectively merges the traditional chat experience into a broader, productivity-focused workflow. Users looking for a straightforward conversation will have the option to enable chat mode within Cowork, rather than accessing it as a separate section. This change positions Cowork not only as the main entry point but as the core use case for Claude moving forward. The UI is being streamlined too as the right sidebar is set to feature a dedicated Artefacts section.
A key addition is the introduction of knowledge bases. These are described internally as persistent repositories that Claude can reference for relevant context and incrementally update with new information such as user preferences, decisions, facts, or lessons learned.
Knowledge base internal instruction 👀
Knowledge Bases: These are persistent knowledge repositories. Proactively check them for relevant context when answering questions. When you learn new information about a KB's topic (preferences, decisions, facts, lessons learned), add it to the appropriate KB incrementally."
The implication is that, rather than relying solely on a large, undifferentiated memory context, Claude could segment information into multiple, user-managed knowledge bases. Users will likely be able to select specific knowledge bases as context attachments when working on tasks in Cowork, which is particularly relevant for workflows involving automation and file management.
Additional findings point to an expanded connector framework. References to an MCP registry suggest that Claude might be able to manage and operate multiple remote connectors dynamically, potentially installing approved modules as needed for task completion. This development could substantially increase the automation capabilities of Cowork.
Anthropic is working on new widgets for displaying search results in the Claude web app - weather, stocks, sports scores, and places with maps
— Tibor Blaho (@btibor91) January 17, 2026
There's also a special recipe cooking mode with an ingredients calculator that adjusts based on servings, plus step-by-step instructions… pic.twitter.com/GxPj9ZfsUs
There are also indications of ongoing work on a voice mode for Claude’s web interface, which would broaden accessibility and usability. The previously identified Pixelate feature, enabling users to convert images into pixel-art avatars, has been refined and now generates higher-quality results, with support extended to the desktop app.
These updates collectively suggest Anthropic is evolving Claude from a standard chat assistant into a more comprehensive productivity agent, emphasizing modular knowledge management, automation, and multimodal input options. The company’s overall strategy is clearly focused on embedding Claude deeper into everyday workflows by blending traditional chat, knowledge repositories, and agentic capabilities within a unified interface.
