The web browser Brave, based on the Basic Attention Token (BAT), launches a new search engine in beta version, protecting the privacy of its users. It hopes to conquer new consumers who want to search the Internet without being tracked.
David against Goliath or Brave against Google
The platform aims to take on Google, which collects personal data and analyzes browsing habits, while offering targeted ads and personalized search results. However, it’s proving to be an uphill battle against the tech giant, which accounts for more than 90 percent of the market.
In a June 22 announcement, Brave said it has launched the beta version of Brave Search integrated with its browser, offering users “the first independent search/privacy browser alternative.”
Users interested in testing the new search engine will find it at “search.brave.com.” It has been built on an independent index that does not register users or their searches, let alone their clicks. So it will appeal to those who want to avoid the scrutiny of Google or Microsoft Bing.
Google’s engine is still there
The search engine will still include a “Google” option for those who still want to use the results of the global technology giant, when those offered seem insufficient. An explanatory video is available here.
Brave Search will not initially display advertisements, which is the method used by Google to monetize its search results. However, in the future it will offer a free ad-supported search as well as a paid option without ads, and will incorporate its Basic Attention Token (BAT).
“When we are ready, we will explore bringing private ads with a BAT revenue share to search, as we did with Brave user ads. “
Brendan Eich, CEO and co-founder of Brave
According to information from Coin Telegraph, Brave’s CEO, who ran Mozilla and Firefox before co-founding Brave, said that getting large numbers of people to use the search feature is crucial to its success, as their collective actions will anonymously direct Brave’s servers to the highest quality search results.
With 32 million active users, the Brave browser is, for now, a drop in the bucket of Internet searches. Google has 92.2% of the market share and Bing 2.27% (second place). However, with a solid alternative and a strong focus on privacy, Brave intends to conquer market share, while continuing to innovate.
