What is AI deep research?
AI deep research is a multi-step agent that issues dozens of sub-queries, reads hundreds of sources, and writes a long-form report instead of a single chat reply.
A normal AI search returns one paragraph in 2 seconds. Deep research takes minutes, plans a research strategy, follows citations, and produces a structured report — like having a junior analyst on tap.
How it works under the hood
The agent decomposes your question into 10–30 sub-queries, runs each through web search, reads the top results, follows links found inside them, and synthesises a multi-section report with inline citations.
When to use it
Investment due diligence, market sizing, comparing 5+ products, understanding a regulatory change. Anything you'd otherwise spend an afternoon on.
What makes a good deep research tool
Source diversity, depth of citation, ability to filter out AI-generated junk, and a usable report format you can export.
Frequently asked questions
Is deep research free?
On Hobnob AI, deep research is included in Starter and above. Free tier gets standard cited search.
How long does it take?
Typically 2–8 minutes depending on topic complexity and source filter.
Why does Hobnob AI show ads?
Because we keep search free and unlimited for everyone — no paywall, no credit card, 20 free searches a day. Running real-time web crawls, large language models, and TrustScore checks costs real money on every single query. A few non-intrusive ads are what let a tiny indie team keep the lights on so a student in Delhi, a researcher in Lagos, or a developer in São Paulo can use the same powerful AI search a Silicon Valley engineer uses — for free, forever. If ads bother you, upgrading to Starter, Pro, or Business removes them instantly and directly funds the people building this for you. Either way, you're helping keep open AI search alive.
Try it on Hobnob AI
Cited answers, TrustScore on every source, free to start.
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