Lightweight web browser for macOS
Yandex.Browser is a free web browser for macOS devices from developer Yandex. It is an internet browser that prioritizes speed and security to provide users with a seamless experience in as lightweight a footprint as possible. It works on macOS 10.13 and up and includes support for Apple's in-house M-series processors.
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Compared to the built-in Safari browser in macOS, Yandex.Browser performs similarly speedily while being easy on system resources. It also boasts a clean and intuitive UI that focuses on letting users perform quick web searches and have access to their favorite sites straight from the homepage's shortcuts toolbar.
Quick browsing and safety checks
Yandex.Browser can be traced back to its search engine roots, which is apparent from the first time you open it as you're presented with its Smartbox that lets you type in a website URL or perform a web search straight from the homepage. Webpages are automatically checked for safety through its own security system, while downloads are scanned with the Kaspersky anti-virus.
You can build your bookmark list from scratch or import directly from Google Chrome. Either way, they can be accessed through the browser's Tableau feature that presents all your favorite websites as tile-based shortcuts on the homepage. You can also use it to create custom widgets for things like the weather or a ticker for your social media notifications and messages, so you can stay up-to-date.
Lastly, in case you will be visiting foreign web pages, you can use the auto-translate function that currently supports 14 languages. Now, the platform collects user data through Yandex IDs that users create and from usage patterns and history to offer personalized services and offerings. While the company is pretty open about this, some users may find issues in these data collection practices.
Special browser features
Yandex.Browser is inclusive by offering features tailored specifically for individuals with visual impairments. These unique features enable such users to access and interpret on-screen information via speech-driven or touch-based navigation. This functionality is achieved thanks to the integration of specialized voice-command systems that verbalize all content visible on the screen. Control over this process is done by using touch gestures or keyboard shortcuts.
Moreover, this browser goes the extra mile in enhancing its user experience by implementing a robust ad-filtering system. This key feature works diligently to eliminate intrusive and inappropriate ads while users browse the internet. Users can also manually report ads that bring undue distractions. In doing so, it presents a smoother, more streamlined online experience, free of irrelevant information constantly popping up on the screen.
Something to consider
Overall, Yandex.Browser is a straightforward and easy-to-use web browser. Although it isn't the most feature-rich option out there, the ones it comes with are convenient and handy for daily browsing. One important thing to consider, though, is how your data is being handled. If you have issues with it, try something else. Otherwise, give this one a try and see for yourself.
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