Anthropic has released the system prompts used in Claude.ai and its mobile applications. The published documentation includes not only the current prompts but also a history of past changes.
In the new system prompts, the model is instructed not to reproduce text such as lyrics, poems, books, or articles, even in part. This includes choruses, melodies, and content that users may input claiming it as their own original creation. However, reproduction is permitted for works published before 1929.
Furthermore, restrictions have been placed on the generation of visual works. It is prohibited to use SVG, CSS, HTML, ASCII art, or similar methods to depict specific logos, characters, or brand icons. Regarding characters, the policy states that attempts to bypass restrictions by altering poses, colors, or styles will be refused if the character remains recognizable.
For example, if requested to depict a specific character, Claude is prescribed to refuse the request and instead suggest an alternative original design.
This update coincides with a period in which music publishers and other entities have initiated legal action against Anthropic.
Source: Claude's new system prompt doesn't want to reproduce song lyrics (Hacker News Frontpage, 2026-09-05)