Tell HN: Anthropic no longer allowing Claude Code subscriptions to use OpenClaw

Anthropic announced that starting April 4, Claude Code subscribers can no longer use their subscription limits with third-party harnesses like OpenClaw. Users must enable pay-as-you-go billing to continue using these tools. Anthropic is offering a one-time credit equal to monthly subscription price (redeemable by April 17) and discounts on pre-purchased usage bundles to ease the transition. This policy change aims to manage system capacity strain caused by third-party integrations and prioritize core product users.

Key Points

• •Third-party harnesses (OpenClaw, etc.) no longer covered by Claude subscription starting April 4, 2025 at 12pm PT
• •Users must enable separate pay-as-you-go billing to continue using third-party harnesses with Claude account
• •Claude Code and Claude Cowork subscriptions remain fully functional for core Anthropic products
• •One-time credit equal to monthly subscription price offered to ease transition (redeem by April 17)
• •Pre-purchased usage bundles available with up to 30% discount for extra usage
• •Policy applies to all third-party harnesses, with OpenClaw as initial enforcement point
• •Capacity management and prioritization of core product users cited as reason for change
• •Refund option available for affected subscribers via follow-up email
• •Third-party integrations identified as causing outsized strain on Anthropic's systems

Workflow Diagram

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