Anthropic is doubling usage limits for its Claude AI chatbot during off-peak hours for a limited time. From March 13 to March 27, users on Free, Pro, Max, and Team plans will automatically get double their normal usage limits for five hours daily outside weekday hours between 8 AM and 2 PM ET. This promotion applies across all Claude platforms including web, desktop, mobile, Cowork, Claude Code, and integrations like Excel and PowerPoint. Previously, only Pro, Max 5x, and Max 20x subscribers received similar benefits during a December event. The current offer targets a broader audience, excluding only Enterprise users.

This promotion arrives amidst Anthropic's ongoing conflict with the U.S. Department of Defense. After refusing to remove certain AI safeguards, Anthropic was deemed a supply chain risk, losing its federal contract. This loss is seen as a factor driving users towards Claude, with many reportedly switching from ChatGPT following OpenAI's DoD deal. The limited-time usage boost appears aimed at solidifying Claude's position against competitors in the crowded AI market.

The promotion provides immediate relief for heavy users during off-peak times, potentially attracting more users during a period of intense competition. It represents a strategic move to reward existing users while differentiating Claude from rivals like OpenAI's ChatGPT, especially as the AI landscape continues to evolve rapidly.