Anthropic Brings Opus And Sonnet To Claude Voice Mode

Anthropic is expanding Claude’s voice capabilities as competition in AI assistants intensifies, allowing users to choose between its Opus, Sonnet and Haiku models in voice mode. The update comes just weeks after OpenAI introduced a new family of conversational models and refreshed ChatGPT’s voice experience.

A More Capable Voice Experience

Until now, Claude’s voice mode relied exclusively on the Haiku model, prioritizing speed over more complex conversations. With the latest update, users can switch between Opus, Sonnet and Haiku while speaking with Claude, while voice mode automatically defaults to the fastest version of the model most recently used in text chat. The change creates a smoother transition between typing and speaking and is designed to support more demanding tasks, including preparing client presentations, refining communication and brainstorming product ideas, Anthropic said.

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Voice That Works Across Apps

Beyond expanding model choice, Anthropic is also extending Claude’s ability to work across third-party services. Voice mode can now connect with Gmail, Google Calendar, Slack, Canva and Notion, allowing users to reschedule meetings, draft emails or create documents without leaving the conversation.

The update also sets Claude apart from many competing voice assistants by extending conversations into workplace tasks through connected applications, rather than focusing solely on natural dialogue.

Multilingual Support

Anthropic has also been broadening Claude’s reach. Earlier this year, the company added beta support for multiple languages, allowing users to speak in English, French, German, Hindi, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese and Spanish, although the language must currently be selected manually. The expansion is aimed at teams operating across multiple regions and languages.

Availability

The updated voice mode is now available in beta across platforms. Free users can access only the Haiku model and connect a single app, while paid subscribers can choose between all three models and use additional integrations.

Anthropic did not announce changes to the underlying voice model or disclose the technology powering the feature. It also did not say whether the update includes improvements to conversational behavior, such as interruption handling.

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Shein Targets $25 Billion Valuation In Hong Kong IPO As Growth Slows

by News Editor

August 17, 2026

Shein is reportedly targeting a valuation of around $25 billion in its planned Hong Kong IPO, a sharp decline from the nearly $100 billion valuation the online fashion retailer achieved in a 2022 fundraising round.

Two people familiar with the plans said the company was likely to target about $25 billion, while another source put the expected range at $25 billion to $28 billion based on the proposed price band.

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IPO Valuation Falls Sharply

Shein plans to sell up to 8% of its shares in the offering, according to a person familiar with the plans. At a $25 billion valuation, that would translate into an IPO of as much as $2 billion.

The latest target is also below the $30 billion to $40 billion valuation the company was seeking earlier this month as it began meeting with potential investors.

Founded in China in 2012 and now headquartered in Singapore, Shein sells low-cost clothing to consumers in about 160 countries. The company is expected to launch its long-awaited Hong Kong IPO later this week.

Trade Restrictions Weigh On Growth

Shein’s valuation has come under pressure as major markets tighten rules affecting low-cost e-commerce shipments. The European Union, for example, has moved to impose additional fees on cheap parcels from platforms such as Shein and Temu. EU Tightens Rules On Low-Cost E-Commerce Parcels

In the U.S., the removal of an import duty exemption for small packages has also affected the company. Shein reported a $99 million quarterly loss in the first quarter of 2026 as sales growth slowed, while a one-time accounting charge further weighed on its results. Shein Reports First-Quarter Loss Ahead Of IPO

Investors Question Shein’s Growth Prospects

The steep reduction in valuation reflects growing concerns over slower growth, higher trade costs, regulatory pressure and stronger competition across global e-commerce.

Some investors who reviewed Shein’s recent financial statements or attended IPO presentations told Reuters they were skeptical that the company could return to the growth rates that supported its $98.2 billion valuation in 2022. Shein’s Slowing Growth Tests Investor Appetite

A lower IPO valuation could also affect Shein’s existing investors. Under the terms of its IPO filing, the company may have to issue additional shares to certain pre-IPO investors if its valuation falls below agreed thresholds.

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