New Ad-Blocking Browser, ‘Brave.’

By Michaela Renecker | @mrenecker26

There’s a new sheriff in town - well, almost. Former Mozilla CEO, and Brave co-founder, Brendan Eich has successfully raised 4.5 million dollars toward the continued development of Brave Software. The new web browser aims to block pop-up ads and trackers, without having any third party blockers installed. The new browser claims to increase speed and efficiency, while providing enhanced privacy. Brave released statistics showing a speed increase of about 40 percent on desktop computers, and should double mobile device browser speeds. The biggest question is how will ads come into play with the new technology? Eich says, “If there is a role for ads, they have to be fewer and more effective.” The ad program is coming under fire, however, with critics calling the idea “blatantly illegal.” Eich is planning on proving his concept with ad campaigns launching later this year.

The new browser looks very charming; however, it will be interesting to see how widely the technology will be adopted. Google Chrome has a rather large hold on the public, with the genius functionality of incorporating all things Google. Chrome users may be hesitant to discontinue their current go-to, in favor of a new browser. Also, who doesn’t already have pop-up blockers installed? Other favorites include Firefox and Safari, both of which also hold a large portion of users. The speed may be the largest drive Brave has in the market, and those numbers sure look hard to beat… let’s see how they hold up when the software becomes public. If Brave can make my Netflix binging more smooth and pleasurable, they just might have my business!

Release is set for September as Brave 1.0. Current developer versions are available for iOS, Mac, Android, and Windows. Test it out and let us know what you think!