Anthropic is expanding Claude with free-access features—including skills, connectors, and file creation—while removing ads and maintaining a subscription tier.

The AI can convert text into full documents and generate multiple file types (spreadsheets with formulas, slide decks with outlines, PDFs, Word docs) with ready-made assets accessible via chat.

Free users can create and edit Excel, PowerPoint, Word, and PDF files within Claude conversations using the Sonnet 4.5 model, while paying subscribers keep access to the more advanced Opus model.

Analysts note potential shifts in data privacy and US-centric hosting, with implications for monetization strategies in the AI space.

The update aims to broaden use cases through third-party integrations and automated reporting, potentially lowering operational costs for businesses.

Anthropic emphasizes the changes boost everyday productivity without ads, while preserving its subscription model.

The excerpt focuses on feature announcements and implications for users, with no specific dates provided.

Industry context shows major players ramping AI ads, highlighting a broader advertising and market backdrop for Claude’s expansion.

Educators and SMBs are highlighted as beneficiaries, using skills for teaching and connectors to streamline marketing and customer-service workflows.

Looking ahead, freemium expansion may pressure competitors to rethink ad-supported revenue and push toward more accessible, privacy-conscious AI tools.

Technical and ethical considerations include personalized skills, data privacy in file creation and integrations, and a focus on transparency and safety.

Early reactions are broadly positive toward ad-free, feature-rich Claude, with discussions on platforms like X and Reddit noting ongoing usage caps as a point of friction.