Mint ·
Tech utility spends: AI Pro tools and extra storage are becoming regular outflows
AI tools and cloud storage are emerging as a new category of recurring household spending, but experts say users should regularly assess their utility, avoid overlapping subscriptions and protect personal data.
Just as a few newer spends like OTT video streaming services have moved from optional spends into standard household line items over the past decade, a new category of monthly spending is locking in its place in family budgets.
This emerging outflow goes toward intangible technology utility spends, split across two areas: expanded storage such as Apple iCloud, Google One, Dropbox, or Microsoft OneDrive, and premium AI productivity subscriptions like Claude Pro or ChatGPT Plus.
Data from the Anthropic Economic Index reveals that India ranks second globally in overall Claude AI usage. The heavy AI usage remains concentrated among developers and IT professionals, but the broader demand for cloud storage spans every age group, from college students backing up device media to senior citizens saving family photos.
