Key Highlights
- Anthropic adds four premium Claude features to the free plan
- Users can now create files, connect apps, use skills, and summarise long chats
- The update expands access as AI platforms rethink monetisation
- The rollout comes amid wider changes in the AI chatbot market
Anthropic has expanded the Claude free plan by adding four premium features that were earlier locked behind paid tiers. The update matters because it gives everyday users access to advanced AI tools without paying, at a time when rival platforms are experimenting with ads and tighter limits.
The company confirmed that File Creation, Connectors, Skills, and Compaction are now available to all logged-in users on Claude’s free tier. The features run on the models already available to free users.
What did Anthropic add to the Claude free plan?
In a post on X, Anthropic said the new tools are now rolling out globally. Until now, these features were exclusive to Pro and Max plans.
The move lowers the entry barrier for users who rely on Claude for writing, research, and task automation. It also increases pressure on competitors like OpenAI, whose ChatGPT is currently testing ads on its free tier.
How does File Creation change Claude usage?
File Creation allows users to generate and download standalone files directly from chat. Claude can create spreadsheets, documents, PDFs, or code files instead of plain text replies.
As a result, users no longer need to copy and format outputs manually. The feature supports formats such as CSV, PDF, and Python scripts, making Claude more useful for work and study tasks.
What are Connectors and why do they matter?
Connectors let Claude link with external apps using Anthropic’s Model Context Protocol. Once connected, the AI can pull information or act within tools like Google Drive, Notion, and Slack.
This brings limited agent-like behavior to free users. It allows Claude to work across documents and workflows instead of staying confined to chat.
How Skills simplify repeated instructions
Skills act as reusable instructions combined with a knowledge base. Users can define how Claude should behave or what role it should play, then reuse that setup across chats.
Therefore, users no longer need to repeat the same prompts in every session. This improves consistency and saves time.
What does Compaction do in long conversations?
Compaction summarises earlier parts of long chats. When users return after a break, Claude provides a concise recap of prior context.
This makes it easier to resume complex projects without scrolling through entire conversations.
Why this update matters now
Anthropic’s decision to expand the Claude free plan signals a shift toward wider access. As AI tools compete for daily usage, feature availability is becoming as important as model performance.
In the short term, this update makes Anthropic more visible to first-time users. In the long term, it reshapes expectations around what “free” AI chatbots can offer.
