Trump lifts export controls on Anthropic's Mythos, Fable AI models

What happened

The Trump administration has lifted export restrictions on Anthropic's Mythos 5 and Fable 5 AI models after the company reached a deal with the Commerce Department. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick wrote to Anthropic cofounder Tom Brown that "a license is no longer required for the export, reexport, or in-country transfer" of these models, which had previously been approved only for select companies and government agencies.

Why it matters

Anthropic had been in dispute with the administration over security safeguards for its models, particularly around blocking unauthorized access to restricted capabilities related to cybersecurity. By agreeing to build more robust safeguards and work with the U.S. government on protocols and standards, Anthropic secured the removal of restrictions that were limiting its ability to distribute these models widely. This shift signals the administration is willing to ease AI export controls when companies commit to stronger safety measures.

What to watch

Anthropic has committed to proactively detect and address security risks, and to work diligently with the U.S. government on protocols and standards for these models and future releases. The deal was led by Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and national cyber director Sean Cairncross.