Chapter 14 · DESKTOP
Cowork, folders and the cloud
A cloud task can continue after you close your computer, but local file access depends on the Desktop app and connected folders. As of September 30, 2026, documentation describes a Pro/Max change scheduled for October 6, 2026; it is not yet an already-completed change.
Video
Steps
- Connect a small practice folder. Review its name and access before approving. Do not select your whole home folder just for convenience.
- Distinguish files attached to the cloud from files reached through Desktop. Local files are unavailable when the app or computer is unavailable.
- For a new result, specify an output folder. For edits to an existing file, work on a copy and inspect a diff or comparison before replacing the original.
- Read your session state and account's storage behavior. An existing task, a new task and moving a transcript to Claude Code are different actions. Projects and scheduled tasks do not necessarily move with it.
Common pitfall: "Runs in the cloud" does not mean local files are always reachable.
Hands-on exercise: Connect a sample folder and request a file list without edits. Then check availability when Desktop is closed, with no important task running.
Filmed demo · Video is added in the media phase
Recap
Comprehension check
What does cloud Cowork need to reach local files?
Recap
- Limit connected folders
- Distinguish local access from cloud storage
- Date future product changes