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Base44 Opens Connectors and Backend Functions to Every Plan

Base44View original changelog

Base44 now lets apps use connectors to services like Gmail, Slack and Google Calendar, and call any API through backend functions, on every plan including Free. Running a backend function can use a small amount of integration credit. Workflows, custom OpenAPI integrations and MCP connections still require the Builder plan or higher.

Key Takeaways

  • Connectors now work on the Free plan, covering services like Gmail, Slack and Google Calendar.
  • Backend functions can call any API on every plan, not just paid tiers.
  • Running a function may use a small amount of integration credit, so usage still counts.
  • Workflows, custom OpenAPI integrations and MCP connections remain Builder-plan features.
  • The change lowers the barrier for first-time builders who want real integrations in a prototype.
  • Base44 is gating on automation depth rather than basic connectivity, a notable shift in its plan structure.

Connectors and Backend Functions Reach the Free Plan

Base44 removed the paid-plan requirement for two core building blocks. Apps on any plan, including Free, can now connect to services such as Gmail, Slack and Google Calendar through connectors, and can call any external API from backend functions. Previously, reaching outside services from an app generally required a paid tier, which made it hard for new builders to prototype anything that touched real tools.

What It Costs

Running a backend function can consume a small amount of integration credit, so Free plan apps that call functions heavily should keep an eye on usage. Base44 describes the amount as small, and did not publish a per-call figure in the changelog.

What Still Needs a Paid Plan

Not everything opened up. Workflows, custom OpenAPI integrations and MCP connections still require the Builder plan or higher. The practical effect is that a Free plan app can now talk to a service and run custom server-side logic, but automation chains, custom API specs and MCP servers remain upgrade features.

Why It Matters

For people trying Base44 for the first time, this moves the point where a project becomes genuinely useful, such as sending a Gmail message or posting to Slack, from "after upgrading" to "from the start". It lowers the barrier for hobby projects and lets builders validate an idea with real integrations before paying.