Newsbite analysis · AI · Software Release
The Verge - Tech
Anthropic launches a new small model called Haiku 4.5.
Anthropic has launched Haiku 4.5, a small model that claims to perform coding tasks on par with Claude Sonnet 4 but at a significantly faster pace and reduced cost. Unlike its predecessor, Haiku 4.5 is now available under free Claude plans, though it does not come as the default option. This model's ability to break down complex problems and manage concurrent tasks offers promising advantages for users seeking efficiency in coding processes.
Act nowConfidence: MediumShort term horizonStory: First report
EvidenceOfficial announcementNo quotes
Published 7 Oct 2026, 20:05 UTC2 min read
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Brief
NewsBite reading:Anthropic unveils Haiku 4.5 model, faster and cheaper than Claude Sonnet 4
TL;DR
- Haiku 4.5 matches coding performance of Claude Sonnet 4.
- The new model operates significantly faster and at one-third the cost.
- Haiku 4.5 is available on free Claude plans.
- It can break down complex problems into multi-step plans.
- Multiple Haiku 4.5 instances can manage subtasks concurrently.
Interesting facts
- Haiku 4.5's pricing and performance enhancements may attract a wider user base.
- This model adds competitive pressure in the AI coding assistant market.
What changed
The introduction of Haiku 4.5 as a new model provides significant performance improvements over its predecessor.