Anthropic has announced new integrations between its Claude assistant and Slack, enabling users to incorporate the tool directly into their daily communications or link Slack data to Claude for contextual research. The update aims to keep workflows within familiar platforms while supporting tasks like drafting messages, reviewing discussions, and preparing for meetings.

The integration offers two primary options: adding Claude as an app within a Slack workspace or connecting Slack channels to the standalone Claude applications. In both cases, Claude draws on its existing features, such as web searches and document reviews, while respecting user permissions in Slack.

Using Claude Directly in Slack

For teams already relying on Slack, Claude can now join conversations without requiring a switch to another interface. Users on paid Slack plans can install the app via the Slack Marketplace, with workspace administrators needing to approve it first. Once set up, individuals authenticate using their Claude accounts.

There are three straightforward ways to engage Claude in Slack:

1. Direct messages: Initiate a private chat with @Claude for help with research, writing, or data analysis.
2. AI assistant panel: Access Claude via an icon in Slack's header from any channel, allowing input without disrupting group discussions.
3. Thread participation: Mention @Claude in a thread to generate a draft response based on the ongoing context. Users review and edit the output privately before posting.

Claude limits its searches to public and private channels where the user has access, ensuring it adheres to existing permissions. Drafts in public threads are prepared offline for approval, giving users full oversight.

Linking Slack to Claude for Deeper Context

For those using Claude's web or mobile apps, a new connector pulls in relevant Slack content to inform responses. This setup, available to Claude Team and Enterprise subscribers, requires administrators to enable it organization-wide before users activate it in their settings.

The connector scans accessible channels, direct messages, and shared files to surface details for various tasks:

1. Meeting preparation: Compile recent discussions, attached documents, and key decisions into summaries.
2. Project coordination: Track updates across channels, flag obstacles, and outline progress.
3. Onboarding support: Surface historical conversations and files to help new hires get up to speed.
4. Documentation creation: Convert informal chats into structured records, incorporating supporting materials.

This approach keeps sensitive data secure, as Claude only views content the user is authorized to see and follows the organization's retention rules.

Emphasis on Security and Privacy

Anthropic underscores that the integration aligns with Claude's established security practices. Access is tied to the user's Claude account, and Slack permissions dictate what Claude can reference. Workspace admins manage app approvals, while conversations remain governed by Slack's policies.

The Chief Product Officer at Slack, highlighted the partnership's potential: “Every company is on its way to becoming an agentic enterprise, where AI agents work hand-in-hand with humans. Partnering with Anthropic to integrate Claude into Slack and Slack context into Claude accelerates that journey bringing best-in-class AI directly into the flow of work. By bridging the gap between Claude and Slack users, we're creating a seamless AI experience that makes work more productive, more enjoyable, and more intelligent than ever.”

Availability and Next Steps

The Slack app is live now for paid plans, pending admin approval. The connector rolls out to eligible Claude subscribers via the settings menu. Both features build on prior tools without introducing new subscription tiers.