Anthropic Introduces Weekly Rate Limits for Claude Code Amid User Backlash
Anthropic's new weekly rate limits for Claude Code spark significant backlash from users.
Key Points
- • Anthropic implements new weekly rate limits for Claude Code due to abuse by a minority of users.
- • The Max subscription allows up to 900 messages every five hours at a cost between $100 and $200.
- • Users reported excessive usage, with some racking up tens of thousands in costs.
- • The new limits, effective August 28, aim to sustain service quality amid rising demand.
Anthropic, a prominent player in the AI chatbot market, announced new weekly rate limits for its Claude Code service, a move driven by reported abuses by a small group of users. The restrictions, set to take effect on August 28, aim to enhance the sustainability of the service amidst skyrocketing demand since its launch on June 4.
The new rate limits impact subscribers across various subscription tiers, including the Pro plan at $20 per month and the Max plans priced at $100 and $200 per month, allowing up to 900 messages every five hours. Anthropic’s spokesperson revealed that users had utilized the service so excessively that one individual reportedly amassed tens of thousands of dollars in costs on a $200 plan. Additionally, some were found to be reselling access to their accounts or employing a practice termed 'multi-clauding', where they run multiple instances of Claude Code to increase productivity, straining system resources.
Only approximately 5% of users were found engaging in such abuses, prompting Anthropic’s decision to introduce limits. While the company assures that most regular users will not notice significant changes, backlash has already emerged from affected power users. Many have expressed their frustration on social media platforms like Reddit, referring to the new limits as a loss of the previously more lenient usage policies.
Anthropic has acknowledged the broader context of this situation, where the AI industry faces challenges related to the high operational costs of running demanding models. The company noted that achieving a balance between providing robust service quality and managing unsustainable use patterns is crucial. Users will still have options for additional usage at standard API rates if required.
As the August deadline approaches, users are urged to adjust their projects and usage accordingly, amidst an evolving landscape for AI services that continues to grapple with similar issues in cost management and user sustainability.