Claude AI Web Search Explained: Availability, Features, and How to Use It in 2025

Claude AI can now search the internet using its built-in "Research" feature.

This capability is available to all paid users globally on supported plans.

When enabled, Claude performs searches automatically and includes source citations.

Users can activate it through their account settings on Claude.ai.

As artificial intelligence tools evolve, access to real-time information has become a key feature for users seeking up-to-date answers. In this context, many have asked whether Claude AI, developed by Anthropic, can search the internet. As of May 2025, the answer is yes—with important qualifications.

Web Search Now Available in Claude

Claude AI now includes web search functionality through its "Research" feature. This capability allows the model to access and retrieve real-time information from the internet to support and enhance its responses. When active, Claude can autonomously decide when to perform a web search, and it clearly cites its sources, ensuring transparency and verifiability.

This marks a significant step forward for Anthropic’s AI model, bringing it in line with other advanced tools such as ChatGPT and Google Gemini.

Who Can Use Claude’s Web Search?

The web search feature is currently available to all paid users worldwide. This includes individuals and teams subscribed to Claude’s Max, Team, or Enterprise plans. The feature is also expected to roll out soon to users on the Pro plan.

There are no regional restrictions at this point—users from any location can access web search functionality, provided they are on a supported plan.

How to Enable Web Search in Claude

To enable Claude's web search, users need to activate the option in their account settings:

1. Navigate to your profile settings on Claude.ai.

2. Toggle on the option labeled "Web Search".

3. Once enabled, Claude will perform searches when it determines additional information is necessary.

Claude will then cite the external sources it uses, allowing users to trace and verify the information presented in its responses.

Claude vs Other AI Tools

With web access now integrated, Claude competes more directly with other AI models that already offer browsing capabilities:

• ChatGPT (Plus, with GPT-4-turbo) – Offers an optional browsing tool for real-time answers.

• Google Gemini – Uses live Google Search integration to provide dynamic results.

• Microsoft Copilot – Leverages Bing Search for up-to-date responses across Microsoft 365 apps.

Claude’s approach emphasizes clarity and control, allowing users to benefit from both the depth of its training and the accuracy of real-time data when needed.

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SUMMARY TABLE

Feature	Details
Availability	Paid users globally (Max, Team, Enterprise plans)
Functionality	Performs real-time web searches when needed
Source Citations	Includes clear references to external sources
How to Enable	Toggle "Web Search" in profile settings on Claude.ai