Anthropic has launched major updates to its Claude AI assistant, introducing an autonomous research capability and Google Workspace integration that transform the AI into a “true virtual collaborator” for enterprise users. The expansion directly challenges OpenAI and Microsoft in the competitive market for AI productivity tools.
Claude’s new Research feature enables the AI to independently conduct multiple searches that build upon each other while determining what to investigate next. This allows Claude to generate comprehensive answers in minutes, rather than up to 30 minutes like rival products. Anthropic positions this speed as a key differentiator and a calculated bet on enterprise users prioritizing quick responses for time-sensitive decisions.
The company emphasizes its security-first approach, particularly with the Google Drive Catalog feature that uses retrieval augmented generation (RAG) techniques. This restricts access to Enterprise plan customers, who receive enhanced security infrastructure, dedicated support, and advanced administrative controls designed for organizations with stringent data protection requirements.
Anthropic also tackles AI hallucinations by explicitly citing sources in its research. This verification mechanism addresses growing enterprise demand for accountable AI, especially in business-critical applications where accuracy determines success.
Internal testing reports promising results from early users, who have reported saving hours every week that they typically spent on manual work. The company highlights several implementations, including communications teams and sales leaders using Claude to streamline tasks and analyze data.
As the AI assistant wars heat up, Anthropic differentiates Claude through its combination of speed, enterprise focus, and autonomous research capabilities. The Research feature is available in early beta for Max, Team, and Enterprise plans in select countries, while web search has expanded to Brazil and Japan after its US launch in March.
Source: https://venturebeat.com/ai/claude-just-gained-superpowers-anthropics-ai-can-now-search-your-entire-google-workspace-without-you