Key points
- New model targets complex enterprise workplace tasks
- AI releases fuel software stocks selloff fears
- Anthropic, OpenAI rivalry expands beyond technology
SAN FRANCISCO, United States: Anthropic on Thursday released a new high-performing artificial intelligence model, stepping up competition with OpenAI as the global AI race accelerates.
Founded in 2021 by former OpenAI employees, Anthropic has built strong momentum through a rapid series of product launches that have drawn praise in Silicon Valley while unsettling investors. Recent releases, including an AI automation tool and a legal-sector product, contributed to a selloff in software stocks amid concerns that advanced AI could replace traditional business applications.
Unlike OpenAI, which targets consumers through ChatGPT, Anthropic focuses on developers and enterprises seeking AI systems that emphasize data security, predictability, and performance. The company said its latest model, Claude Opus 4.6, marks a significant shift in handling complex workplace tasks such as financial modeling using regulatory filings and market data, as well as generating documents and presentations with minimal editing. AFP reports.
Anthropic said the new model delivers closer-to-final results on the first attempt, reducing the need for repeated revisions. The release follows more than 30 product launches in recent months. In November, its coding tool Claude Code crossed $1 billion in revenue within six months of launch, though heavy computing costs mean the company remains unprofitable, similar to OpenAI.
OpenAI responded on Thursday by launching its own business-focused AI agents platform, Frontier. The rivalry also extends to business models. Anthropic has pledged to keep its Claude chatbot ad-free, while OpenAI has introduced advertisements for non-premium ChatGPT users, a move that has drawn criticism.
Anthropic relies on enterprise contracts and paid subscriptions, a strategy it is promoting through its first Super Bowl advertising campaign. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman criticized the campaign, accusing Anthropic of serving only wealthy users and defending ChatGPT as an AI tool for broader access.
AFP reports say Anthropic is planning a staff tender offer valuing the company at around $350 billion, below OpenAI’s reported target valuation of $800 billion in its next funding round. Both companies are widely believed to be preparing for initial public offerings in the near future.
