Anthropic’s Claude AI is expanding its capabilities with the beta launch of a new research tool and integration with Gmail and Google Docs, enhancing its ability to assist with complex queries and manage emails and documents.
The new research mode allows Claude AI to act as an AI agent, analyzing and carrying out requests by consulting various resources, including the web and internal files. This enables the AI to provide detailed and thorough answers based on the data consulted. For instance, if a user is planning to hike the Appalachian Trail and needs to create an out-of-office plan, Claude can consult emails, calendars, and internal files to determine work commitments and projects. It can also run a web search for internet access along the trail. In response, Claude generates a detailed plan explaining who will cover for the user and what projects they’ll handle, as well as identifying spots with internet connectivity.
Anthropic describes the research mode as a balance of speed and quality, delivering high-quality, comprehensive answers in minutes. This makes it practical for multiple research tasks throughout the workday. Although it’s not as in-depth as similar tools offered by ChatGPT and Gemini, Claude’s research mode runs much quicker and gets to the point more easily. However, it’s currently available only to paid subscribers of Claude Max, Claude Team, and Claude Enterprise in the US, Japan, and Brazil. Users can access the research mode by heading to the Claude website, clicking the Research button at the prompt, and submitting their request.
In addition to the research mode, Claude AI has also introduced an integration with Google services, allowing users to connect Claude to their Gmail, Google Calendar, and Google Docs. This integration enables Claude to search emails, appointments, and documents, and include that information in its responses. Users can ask Claude to analyze or summarize specific content, such as gathering notes for a meeting, pointing out action items from follow-up emails, and looking for related documents. The AI will also display inline citations to verify sources. The Google integration is available as a beta to all paid Claude subscribers, including Pro users. To set it up, users can select the “Connect apps” button on the Claude website, connect to Google Drive, Google Calendar, and Gmail, and grant the necessary permissions.
