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Web Search

Runs a web search and returns ranked results for the model to cite. Tavily is the default provider (free tier).

Requirements​

TAVILY_API_KEY=tvly-...

Get a key at tavily.com. New accounts get about 1,000 free API credits per month (no card required).

Optional:

TAVILY_SEARCH_DEPTH=basic  # basic | advanced (advanced uses more credits)
SEARCH_PROVIDER=tavily  # default; use brave only if you pay for Brave Search

Brave Search is not free (~$5 per 1,000 queries at brave.com/search/api). Only use it if you already have a subscription:

SEARCH_PROVIDER=brave
BRAVE_SEARCH_API_KEY=...

Security​

  • Queries go to Tavily (or Brave if configured) over HTTPS only.
  • No local shell or file access.
  • Scout logs each call when enabled.

Example​

"Search for UK HMO licensing changes in Portsmouth 2025."

Carina calls web-search with a query string. You may see [using web-search...] while streaming.

Response​

Returns a JSON summary: titles, URLs, and snippets. The model synthesises an answer; always verify critical legal or financial facts against primary sources.