Anthropic unveils new framework allowing AI agents to operate physical devices

Anthropic introduced a new research preview called the Model Hardware Standard on Thursday. This framework enables AI agents to control physical devices in scientific research and advanced manufacturing. MHS allows AI agents to operate lab and manufacturing tools like microscopes and robotic arms simultaneously, carrying out complex tasks.

These tasks can range from routine drug discovery experiments to laser calibration on a quantum computer, according to Anthropic. By combining agentic AI with lab and manufacturing hardware, Anthropic's Claude chatbot aims to enable researchers and engineers to run autonomous, continuous workflows with minimal human involvement.

This would significantly accelerate processes. The standard works with any device that has a programmable interface, facilitating communication between devices and AI agents across networks. Anthropic is currently sharing an early version of MHS with partners to develop safety evaluations before releasing it as open source.