In today’s fast-changing tech world, popular AI apps are facing new challenges. Two of the biggest companies in artificial intelligence, OpenAI and Anthropic, have started to tighten their rules. They are now more careful about how people use their AI tools, and some apps have suddenly lost access to these tools. This has made many app developers and startups nervous.
If you are building a business using AI from OpenAI or Anthropic, you need to understand what these changes mean. This article will explain what’s happening, why it matters, and what you can do to protect your work.
Popular AI Apps Face Scrutiny as Anthropic
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Recent Issues | API restrictions, app access cuts, new in-house features |
| Affected Apps | Windsurf, Granola |
| Risks | Dependency on AI platforms, loss of access, unfair competition |
| Solutions | Diversify AI models, read terms of service, plan backups |
| Helpful Links | OpenAI Policy |
The rise of artificial intelligence has opened incredible opportunities, but it has also created new risks—especially for those building apps on platforms owned by companies like OpenAI and Anthropic. These tech giants are evolving rapidly, and they are no longer just providers of tools; they are increasingly creators of their own applications, competitors in the very ecosystem they helped enable.
As we’ve seen with apps like Windsurf and Granola, access to these powerful models can be revoked with little notice. Features that startups spend months building can be replicated and integrated directly into mainstream AI products overnight. For many developers, this has felt like building a business on shifting sands.
But that doesn’t mean the future is bleak. In fact, this is an opportunity to build smarter, more resilient, and more creative products. Founders and developers can take meaningful action by diversifying their AI tools, reading and understanding policies carefully, and architecting systems that allow for flexibility and failover. Equally important is staying close to your users—adding real value beyond what a general-purpose AI can offer.
Building on top of AI platforms today is a bit like building a house on rented land. You can still create something valuable, but you must stay alert and agile. The most successful founders in this space will not only embrace the power of AI—they’ll also prepare for change, adapt quickly, and make sure their vision can outlast any one provider’s roadmap.
This is not just about code and contracts. It’s about clarity, trust, and creativity. AI is transforming our world, and with thoughtful planning, you can be part of that transformation—without losing control of your future.
What’s Going On?
Anthropic Blocks Windsurf
Windsurf is an app that helps people write and summarize documents using AI. It used a model called Claude 3 from Anthropic. But suddenly, Anthropic cut off Windsurf’s access to this model. The reason? Some say it’s because Windsurf started talking with OpenAI about a business deal. Anthropic says it was about “safety” and “compliance.”
This move made many people worry. If your app depends on an AI tool, and the company can cut you off at any time, what happens to your business?
OpenAI Competes With Granola
Granola is another AI app. It helps people take notes and record meetings. It raised $43 million from investors. But then OpenAI released a feature in ChatGPT called “Record Mode.” It does almost the same thing as Granola, and it’s built right into ChatGPT. This could make it hard for Granola to survive.
Both of these stories show a trend: big AI companies are not just selling tools. They are also building their own apps. That means they might compete with the startups that use their tools.
Why This Matters
When big companies like OpenAI or Anthropic change their rules, it affects thousands of smaller companies. If your startup depends on their tools, your app could stop working overnight.
This has happened before in tech:
- Facebook once gave lots of access to developers, then changed its rules.
- Twitter (now X) did the same, cutting off third-party apps.
- Apple often adds features to iPhones that copy popular apps.
So what should developers do now?
What Can Developers Do to Protect Themselves?
Here are some simple steps you can take:
1. Use More Than One AI Model
Don’t rely on just one AI provider. Try using models from Mistral, Cohere, Google, or open-source models like LLaMA 3. You can use a tool like LangChain to switch between them.
2. Understand the Rules
Always read the terms of service. OpenAI and Anthropic have detailed policies that explain what you can and cannot do. Breaking these rules can get your access shut down.
3. Make a Backup Plan
If your AI provider cuts you off, what will you do? Think ahead. Build systems that can change quickly if needed.
4. Watch for Conflicts
Keep an eye on new features your AI provider is launching. If it looks like they are copying your app, it may be time to pivot or specialize.
5. Ask for Contracts
If you’re a serious business, talk to OpenAI or Anthropic about getting a contract. A legal agreement (called an SLA) gives you more protection.
Comparing the Platforms
| Feature | OpenAI | Anthropic |
| Contracts Available | Yes (Teams/Enterprise) | Yes (Enterprise only) |
| Free API Limits | Up to 100K tokens/month | Invite only |
| Abuse Monitoring | Automatic + human review | Active monitoring |
| Competes With Users | Yes (e.g., ChatGPT Memory, Record Mode) | Rare but possible |
| Risk of Cut-Off | High without contract | High without contract |
What Experts Are Saying
“These companies aren’t just platforms anymore. They’re your competitors too.” — Sarah Guo, Tech Investor
“The safest AI startup is one with backups, legal protections, and no single point of failure.” — Emad Mostaque, Founder of Stability AI
These experts agree: you need to be careful when building on someone else’s platform.
Real-Life Advice for Founders
Imagine you’re building an AI app that helps teachers write lesson plans. You use OpenAI’s GPT-4 model. One day, OpenAI releases a new feature in ChatGPT that does the same thing. And it’s free for teachers. What do you do?
- Make your app do something unique. Maybe add lesson-sharing tools or local language support.
- Build in a way that lets you switch to another model, like Claude or Mistral.
- Make sure your users understand the value of your tool, not just the AI behind it.
This is how you stay in business.
New Phone Display Technology That Won’t Break Even If You Drop It – Find Out How!
iPhone 19 Might Remove Selfie Camera Altogether – Apple Working on Big Design Shift
FAQs
Q: Why are OpenAI and Anthropic doing this?
A: They want to keep their platforms safe, avoid misuse, and also compete in the app space.
Q: Can they really shut down my app?
A: Yes. If you’re using their APIs and break a rule, or if they change policies, they can cut access.
Q: Are open-source AI models a good option?
A: Yes, for many. They give you control but need more setup and computing power.
Q: How can I avoid getting shut down?
A: Follow the rules, avoid risky features, and try to get a contract if you can.
Q: Should I worry about competition from AI platforms?
A: Yes, if your app does something simple that they might copy. Try to add special value they can’t easily replicate.
