Web Search
Agent searches the web and fetches current information to build apps with up-to-date information, latest documentation, and accurate details from across the internet.
Build applications with current, real-world data using Agent’s Web Search 
capabilities.
This feature overcomes knowledge cutoffs by accessing the latest information on the web. When you ask Agent to create something requiring up-to-date information, it searches the web and fetches detailed content to make your app more accurate and useful.
Web Search is valuable for finding the latest packages, tools, and information. This ensures your apps use current best practices and are more accurate.
Features
Build applications with current information using Agent’s Web Search. This eliminates manual research and data gathering. Whether you’re creating a dashboard with financial data or building a website showcasing recent startup launches, Web Search ensures your app reflects reality.
Agent can perform the following Web Search actions:
- Search: Find current information, latest documentation, and real-time data from the internet
- Content fetching: Retrieve detailed information from specific websites and URLs
- Source citations: View exactly where Agent found information so you can verify and reference sources
Usage
Web Search is enabled by default. Include keywords like “search,” “research,” or “use Web Search” in your prompt to trigger it.
To manually enable Web Search:
- Open Agent in your Replit App
- Locate the toggle controls in the chat toolbar
- Toggle Web Search on
- Send your prompt
Agent automatically determines when to use Web Search based on your requests. Describe what you want to build, and Agent searches for current information when necessary.
When Agent uses Web Search
Agent triggers Web Search when you request information that requires current data:
| Use Case | Example Prompt |
|---|---|
| Finding optimal packages | ”I need to build an image editor - research the best libraries for canvas manipulation and build an app” |
| API research | ”Build a Discord bot that tracks GitHub commits - find the most reliable Discord.js tutorial and the best way to communicate with GitHub” |
| Framework comparison | ”Help me decide how to implement inventory management for my shopping app. Research the best authentication solutions and their trade-offs” |
| Tool discovery | ”Create an app with smooth animations - research the best animation libraries” |
| Current market data | ”Build a crypto tracker showing today’s top 10 coins with real prices” |
| Company research | ”Make a portfolio site for Michele Catasta, president of Replit” |
| Documentation updates | ”Build a Stripe payment form using their latest API changes” |
| Technology trends | ”Create a developer tools dashboard - what are the trending VS Code extensions?” |
How Web Search enhances your apps
Web Search transforms your applications from using placeholder data to incorporating real, accurate information:
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Up-to-date technology | Your apps use latest information and packages not in training data |
| Best tool selection | Agent researches options to choose optimal packages |
| Current best practices | Access to latest development patterns and security practices |
| Breaking limitations | Overcome knowledge cutoffs to use packages released after training |
| Accurate data | Your apps display current information instead of outdated examples |
| Professional results | Applications that reference real companies appear credible |
| Time-saving | Avoid manually researching packages and gathering data |
Source citations
When Agent uses Web Search, it provides source citations that show exactly where the information came from. Use these citations to:
- Verify information: Check the reliability and accuracy of sources
- Learn more: Visit the original sources for more context
- Reference sources: Include proper attribution in your applications
- Track research: Understand what information informed Agent’s work
Content fetching
Agent can fetch detailed content from specific websites to gather comprehensive information for your project. This allows Agent to:
- Read entire web pages to extract relevant details
- Process documentation and reference materials
- Gather specific data points from authoritative sources
- Integrate structured information into your application
Examples of Web Search in action
Package discovery for image processing
Agent searches for current image processing libraries, compares their features and performance, then builds the app using the most suitable tools.
Web Search works best with specific, detailed requests. For technology discovery, mention your specific requirements
Latest framework features
Agent researches the latest security best practices for authentication and authorization and implements them in your app.
Modern API integration
Agent researches current weather APIs, compares their features, reliability, and pricing to select the best option for your needs.
Startup showcase website
Agent searches for current YC batch information and creates a site with real startup data, logos, and descriptions.
Personal portfolio site
Agent searches for professional information and creates an authentic portfolio with relevant experience and background.
Travel planning app
Agent finds up-to-date travel costs, attractions, and planning information to create a realistic travel application.
Financial comparison dashboard
Agent searches for recent financial reports and builds a dashboard with current, accurate data visualizations.
Always verify information from Web Search results, especially for critical applications. While Agent searches reputable sources, confirm important details for production applications.
Next steps
Combine Web Search with other Agent features for maximum impact:
- Learn about Dynamic Intelligence for deeper analysis of research results
- See Advanced AI features for strategies on combining Web Search with Dynamic Intelligence