Launched on March 20, 2025, the web search feature for Claude 3.7 Sonnet marks a significant milestone in Anthropic's AI development12. This long-awaited capability allows the chatbot to process and deliver relevant sources in a conversational format, expanding its extensive knowledge base with real-time insights1. The feature is currently available in preview for paid Claude users in the United States, with plans to extend support to free users and additional countries in the near future13.

Web search integration enhances Claude's capabilities by providing direct citations for easy fact-checking and delivering relevant sources in a conversational format1. This feature allows users to access the latest events and information without manually searching for results themselves1. Key applications include sales teams analyzing industry trends, financial analysts assessing current market data, researchers building stronger literature reviews, and shoppers comparing product features across multiple sources12. To activate web search, users can toggle it on in their profile settings within the Claude web app2.

Claude's addition of web search capabilities brings it in line with other major AI chatbots like ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, and Google's Gemini, which already offered internet-connected features12. This update addresses one of the most requested features from users, allowing Claude to process information from the internet in real time3. The integration of web search is particularly significant for Anthropic, as it was one of the last major AI chatbots to implement this functionality1. By closing this gap with competitors, Claude enhances its utility across various professional domains, from sales and financial analysis to academic research and consumer decision-making4.

Plans are underway to expand the availability of Claude's web search feature beyond its initial launch. While currently accessible to paid users in the United States, Anthropic aims to extend support to those on the free plan and to users in additional countries12. This phased rollout approach allows Anthropic to refine the feature based on user feedback and ensure smooth integration across different user segments. The company has not yet disclosed a specific timeline for this expansion, maintaining flexibility as they monitor the feature's performance and user adoption rates34.