Key Points
- Anthropic launches a memory function for Claude chatbot.
- Feature lets users retrieve and summarize past chats on demand.
- Available now for Max, Team, and Enterprise plans via Settings.
- Claude does not build a persistent user profile; it only accesses history when asked.
- Rollout coincides with OpenAI’s launch of GPT‑5, intensifying competition.
- Anthropic is pursuing a financing round that could value the company at up to $170 billion.
Feature Overview
Anthropic announced a memory capability for its Claude chatbot, showcased in a YouTube demonstration where a user asks Claude to recall a pre‑vacation conversation. Claude scans past chats, summarizes the content, and offers to continue the discussion, helping users avoid losing track of ongoing projects.
How It Works
The new function operates across web, desktop, and mobile interfaces. Users can enable it by navigating to “Settings” under their profile and turning on the “Search and reference chats” option. Once active, Claude can retrieve and reference prior conversations only when explicitly asked, rather than maintaining a continuous user profile.
Rollout Details
The memory feature is currently rolling out to Claude’s Max, Team, and Enterprise subscription tiers. Anthropic indicated that other plans will receive access in the near future. The company emphasized that this is distinct from a persistent memory system, noting the limitation that Claude does not automatically build a user profile.
Competitive Context
The introduction of Claude’s memory function arrives amid a heightened AI arms race. OpenAI recently launched GPT‑5, prompting Anthropic to accelerate feature development to retain and attract users. Both firms are pursuing enhancements such as voice modes, larger context windows, and tiered subscription offerings to increase platform “stickiness.”
Strategic Implications
Anthropic’s memory capability is positioned as a tool to boost user engagement by allowing seamless continuation of work across sessions. The company is also in the midst of a financing round that could value it at up to $170 billion, underscoring the high stakes of innovation in the chatbot space.
Industry Reaction
The feature has sparked discussion about the balance between convenience and privacy, given that Claude only accesses past chats upon request. Observers note that while the function enhances productivity, it does not yet match the persistent memory features some competitors claim to offer.
Source: theverge.com