Brave is a privacy-first browser offering advanced settings for blocking trackers and improving online security. While it does have some bloat in the form of a built-in cryptocurrency wallet, it’s easily one of thebest browsers on Android.
We’ll walk you through some tips and tricks to get the most out of Brave. If you’ve just picked up a new phone or evenone of our top budget Chromebooks, we recommend using Brave to ensure you’re browsing securely.
This guide is for the Brave Android app. However, most of these tips will also work for the desktop version of Brave.
1Adjust your Shields settings in Brave for greater privacy and security
One of Brave’s biggest selling points is the Shields feature. This is where all your privacy and security settings are managed and can be customized for greater or lesser security. It’s easy to change; just be aware that blocking too much content may cause websites to work improperly, which is why you can change these settings on the fly.
We’ll touch on some key settings in this article, but explore the Shields settings and ensure you have them fine-tuned to suit your browsing habits.
2How to block social media embeds and logins
If you need a social media detox, there’s nothing more annoying than seeing constant embed posts from Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn as you browse. Fortunately, Brave can block these, alongside embedding login options for Google and Facebook.
3How to hide the Brave Rewards icon to free up toolbar space
Brave Rewards lets you earn cryptocurrency from viewing ads, then donate it to your favorite sites and content creators. However, if you don’t want to participate, you’ll want to remove the Brave Rewards icon from your toolbar.
4How to change your default search engine in Brave Browser
Brave is a privacy-focused browser, but you’ll need to change your browsing habits to make the most of it. Brave defaults to its own search engine, but you may want to choose a different search option like DuckDuckGo.
Do not select Google if you’re looking for a privacy-focused search engine.
5How to enable Brave Sync to synchronize browsing data across devices
You’ll probably want to sync your browsing if you use Brave across multiple devices. This lets you continue where you left off, check your history from another device, and open bookmarks saved on another device.
If you’re adding a mobile device, you must scan the QR code on your original device. If you’re adding a computer, you must enter a string of code words.
6Swipe to change tabs in a flash
You can change tabs with a quick swipe in Brave. Just swipe right or left from your address bar to switch to the next tab.
7How to use the Brave widget to access your favorite sites quickly
The Brave Android app has a few widgets, but one is particularly useful for accessing sites in a flash. This widget lets you search, open an incognito tab, or open one of your top four favorite websites with a tap.
8How to disable sponsored images in new tabs
Browse securely with Brave
Brave is a powerful browser that should fulfill all of your privacy needs. However, digital privacy extends far beyond your choice of browser. Follow this guide toprotect your digital privacy on Androidin a few easy steps.
