Anthropic has introduced a fast mode for Claude Opus 4.6, described as a 2.5x faster variant and available as an early experiment; details are published at the company blog: Opus fast mode.
What’s new
This release centers on a performance-optimized execution mode of Opus 4.6 that aims to deliver substantially lower latency. The build is presented as 2.5x faster than the base Opus 4.6 configuration while preserving the model’s intelligence level. The fast mode is positioned for tasks needing speed and is noted to have a higher operational cost compared with standard modes.
Access and interfaces
Fast mode is being exposed initially through two channels:
- Claude Code, where fast mode is available now for users who have extra usage enabled (invoked with /fast).
- The API, provided as an early experiment for developers and integrators.
Availability across partners
Anthropic also listed a set of partners and platforms where the fast mode is appearing in research previews. Those include Cursor, FactoryAI, Figma, GitHub Copilot and Windsurf
Cost and intended use
The build is explicitly characterized as more expensive to run, and Anthropic frames the mode for scenarios described as urgent or high-stakes where faster response times are a priority. No pricing or broader rollout schedule was included in the announcement.
For the original announcement, see the source: https://x.com/claudeai/status/2020207322124132504