Discover 10 Hidden Features of Brave Browser You Might Not Know
Brave Browser is rapidly establishing itself as a strong alternative to mainstream browsers, particularly Google Chrome, thanks to its privacy-first approach. If you’re already using Brave, you may be unaware of some incredible features that can enhance your browsing experience significantly.
1. Customize Ad Blocker and Shields
One of the standout functionalities of Brave is its integrated ad blocker, which automatically eliminates ads and trackers. However, the best part is that you can tailor what gets blocked according to your preferences.
To manage this, open the menu and navigate to Settings. Select Shields from the sidebar. Here, you can adjust the blocking intensity; I personally find the Standard setting effective for most scenarios. For more detailed control, choose Content Filtering within the Shields settings to customize your options.
By clicking the Brave lion icon in the address bar, you can see what content is being blocked and adjust settings on a site-by-site basis. If you’d like to support a website, simply lower the shields.
2. Disable Social Media Elements
Another privacy feature found in Brave’s Settings is the option to block social media platforms from embedding login buttons and posts by default, which can protect you from being tracked. Navigate to Settings -> Shields and scroll down to find this option.
This feature is particularly beneficial if you’re cautious about social networks gathering information about your online behavior.
3. Stream Torrent Files Directly
Unlike many browsers that require external applications to play downloaded torrent files, Brave brilliantly integrates WebTorrent, enabling users to stream these files right within the browser. This feature is typically active by default; however, you can check or enable it via Settings -> Extensions, where you can toggle the WebTorrent option.
Additionally, Brave houses various other integrated extensions.
4. Explore Brave Talk
In line with its commitment to privacy, Brave has rolled out Brave Talk, a secure alternative to popular video conferencing platforms like Zoom and Google Meet. The best part? There’s no additional download required as this feature is built-in. Just open a new tab, and locate the Start Call button, typically positioned in the upper corner of the interface. Alternatively, go directly to Brave Talk.
You can enjoy free group calls with up to four participants, with no limits on the frequency or duration of your calls. For just $7/month, you can experience group watch parties and YouTube streaming, along with secure call recording features.
5. Generate Income and Tip with Brave Rewards
When Brave first launched, its innovative approach included the introduction of the Basic Attention Token (BAT), a cryptocurrency framework that rewards users for viewing ads—up to 10 ads a day, if desired. This unique model promotes revenue sharing with users, recognizing their time and attention.
You can enable the Ads feature under the Settings -> Brave Rewards section. Additionally, tokens can be used to tip content creators. If you’d rather not see ads or earn enough tokens, consider purchasing BAT tokens to either tip creators or set up automatic contributions.
Ad matching occurs on your device, ensuring that personal information remains private. Make Tech Easier is among the verified creators participating in this program. Just click the triangle icon at the end of the address bar to check if your favorite site is part of this initiative.
6. Integrated TOR Functionality
The TOR network, recognized for its security and privacy, is surprisingly accessible within the Brave browser. This built-in feature allows users to maintain ample privacy without the need for switching browsers frequently. It’s important to note, however, that while Brave offers TOR integration, it isn’t as secure as the full TOR browser. Brave informs users that they should utilize the TOR browser for complete anonymity.
To use this feature, access the menu and select New private window with TOR. Wait for the connection to establish, and once you see a green confirmation, you can proceed to browse with added privacy.
Moreover, Brave features a VPN service (not free) available for $9.99/month, eliminating the need for an external application. Alternatively, you could explore third-party VPN options if preferred.
7. Utilize Brave Search
Initially, Brave leveraged DuckDuckGo for its search capabilities; however, it has since introduced its own private search engine, which has quickly become a favorite feature for me. This search engine tends to deliver results that are tailored to my preferences, often matching or exceeding results from Google.
Brave Search is set as the default option, but if it doesn’t suit your needs, you’re free to choose another search engine instead.
8. Synchronize with Brave Sync
Unlike most browsers that require an email or user ID for data synchronization, Brave uses a unique 24-word seed phrase associated with your wallet, mirroring how cryptocurrency wallets operate. You can set this up by navigating to Settings -> Sync.
To sync across devices, open the Brave browser on your mobile and either scan the QR code or enter the seed phrase. You can specify what you want to synchronize, including bookmarks and passwords. It’s crucial to remember that anyone with the seed phrase has access to your Brave wallet and its data.
9. Built-in AI Assistant Leo
Artificial intelligence is becoming prevalent in many browser applications, and Brave is no exception with its AI assistant, Leo. This helpful feature includes functionalities such as summarizing web pages, search results, generating new content, and answering user queries.
Some search results automatically incorporate Leo, providing brief summaries along with sources. Alternatively, you can manually activate Leo by clicking the diamond-shaped button in the search box. For quick access, open the sidebar by selecting the Leo button near the hamburger menu.
10. Integrated Crypto Wallet
Brave’s native wallet is seamlessly integrated with MetaMask, a widely used wallet for accessing decentralized finance (DeFi) applications such as Dapps. You can manage it by going to Settings -> Wallet, or via the menu option labeled Wallet.
Brave also provides widgets to connect users with major centralized exchanges like Binance and FTX.
With Brave’s wallet and its integrations with DeFi, centralized exchanges, and Dapps, users can buy, sell, trade, and stake cryptocurrencies—all from a single, comprehensive platform.
This is merely a glimpse into the myriad features Brave offers, many of which you may not have explored yet. If you’ve transitioned to Brave for enhanced online privacy, consider additional methods to safeguard your personal information. For example, if TikTok is a go-to for you, be sure to enable the associated privacy features.
Image credit: Unsplash. All screenshots provided by Crystal Crowder.
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