The meeting note-taking app market just got more competitive. Circleback, a startup funded through Y Combinator, has launched a free subscription plan to lure users in. Until now, the company relied entirely on paid tiers, with pricing starting at about $20.83 per month.
What’s in the Free Plan
Subscribers to Circleback’s no-cost option can record unlimited meetings, but their transcript history is limited to the last 30 days. The free version also includes access through mobile and Apple Watch apps, the ability to query transcripts using AI, and integrations with Slack and Linear.
For users needing unlimited history or full integration access—including all apps, API, and MCP—Circleback offers paid subscriptions starting at $14 per month when paid annually. Previously, paying users were looking at around $20.83/month for access.
Why the Shift?
Founded in 2023 by Ali Haghani and Kevin Jacyna, Circleback secured $2.5 million in funding in 2024. The team—just eight people—claims to already be profitable, reporting a run-rate revenue exceeding $1 million per employee, translating to a total yearly run-rate approaching $8 million.
The decision to offer a free tier comes after noticing high drop-off during trial periods. By removing the price barrier entirely, Circleback expects to expose more users to its tools. The company does not plan to spend on traditional digital advertising; instead, the free plan will essentially serve as an acquisition strategy.
Despite noticeable market competition from startups like Granola, Read AI, Fireflies, plus recent feature expansions from scheduling and dictation apps, Circleback believes it has been winning customers even against larger spending rivals. The team is not currently seeking additional investment, saying there’s no blockage in their growth. Funding may be considered in the future if new challenges arise.
What to Watch
This launch forces more motion in what’s become a crowded field of AI-powered productivity tools. Key metrics like user retention beyond 30 days, conversion rates from free to paid plans, and the scalability of integrations will be critical in determining whether Circleback’s strategy pays off. For users, the change means easier access, but whether the free tier’s limitations push them toward paid plans will be the test.
