Starting Saturday, April 4th, Claude subscriptions will no longer cover third-party access from tools like OpenClaw.
Using OpenClaw with Claude AI is about to get more expensive due to Anthropic’s policy changes. Starting April 4th at 3 PM ET, users won’t be able to use Claude subscription limits for third-party tools like OpenClaw, as per an email sent to users. Instead, users must use a “pay-as-you-go option” billed separately from their Claude subscription to use OpenClaw with Claude.
With OpenClaw creator Peter Steinberger now working at OpenAI, Anthropic could be encouraging subscribers to use more of its tools like Claude Cowork instead. Steinberger mentioned he and OpenClaw board member Dave Morin tried to reason with Anthropic but only achieved a one-week delay.
According to Anthropic Claude Code executive Boris Cherny:
Starting tomorrow at 12 PM PT, Claude subscriptions will no longer cover usage on third-party tools like OpenClaw.
Tools like these can still be used with Claude login via extra usage bundles (now available at a discount) or a Claude API key.
We’ve been working to meet Claude’s increased demand, and our subscriptions aren’t built for the usage patterns of these third-party tools. We manage capacity thoughtfully and prioritize customers using our products and API.
Subscribers will receive a one-time credit equal to their monthly plan cost. If more is needed, discounted usage bundles are available. To request a full refund, look for a link in your email tomorrow.
We aim to manage growth sustainably for the long-term benefit of our customers. This change supports that goal.
Anthropic didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment from The Verge.
OpenClaw became popular earlier this year after users found it could efficiently manage tasks like inboxes, calendars, and flight check-ins. However, it’s reportedly straining Anthropic’s infrastructure. Anthropic is giving subscribers a one-time credit equal to their monthly plan cost following these changes.