Following the launch of Google's Gemini 3 Pro, Anthropic has introduced an upgrade to its leading Opus AI model, now reaching version 4.5. This iteration delivers top-tier results in programming, digital tool interaction, and productivity applications. Such areas have long been highlights for the Claude series. In tandem with the update, Anthropic is expanding access to several current utilities and debuting a fresh addition.
The Claude for Chrome browser add-on is now accessible to every Max plan subscriber. Additionally, a capability named infinite chat is being added, ensuring that paid Claude subscribers avoid limitations from context windows, thus preserving continuity over documents and conversations. Anthropic notes that this was among the top demands from its community. Furthermore, Claude for Excel integrates the AI as a side panel within Microsoft's spreadsheet program, extending availability to Max, Team, and Enterprise accounts, complete with features for handling pivot tables, visualizations, and document imports.
Regarding the Excel integration, Anthropic reports that initial users experienced a 20% boost in accuracy during company benchmarks and a 15% rise in operational speed. As someone unfamiliar with Excel, I look forward to seeing these advanced skills extended to more accessible versions like Claude Sonnet and Haiku.
Beyond that, Opus 4.5 enhances support for autonomous task sequences, where the AI improves its own methods. Notably, Anthropic describes this as its most secure release to date, with superior defenses against prompt manipulation attempts, surpassing Gemini 3 Pro based on internal assessments.
Opus 4.5 is accessible immediately via Anthropic's platforms and developer API. For programmers, the cost begins at $5 for each million tokens.