Windows users have a new way to browse the web with more privacy, thanks to the public beta release of DuckDuckGo’s Windows browser. The privacy-focused search engine has released a Windows version of its desktop browser.
Mac users were fortunate to receive a desktop version last year. Now, Windows users can now experience DuckDuckGo on their desktops. But what will the browser offer Windows users? And will you make the switch to DuckDuckGo?
What Is DuckDuckGo's Browser?
DuckDuckGo is a search engine that focuses on user privacy. The browser doesn’t save any data, including search and browsing history and cookies. As you browse, you are anonymous and never tracked.
The browser offers a fire button, shaped like a flame, that closes all tabs and erases all their data in one click. Each time you open DuckDuckGo, it will feel like using the browser for the first time.
DuckDuckGo released a public beta for its Mac browser in November 2022 and offered many features, including the fire button, ad and tracker blocker, and cookies pop-up protection. The browser company has now released a similar public beta for Windows devices.
A Windows version has been in development for many years but took longer due to Windows' particularly complex ecosystem, which includes hardware and software variations. There are also touchscreens and screen resolutions to consider.
Before you install the Windows version, be mindful that it’s still in beta, so expect to encounter some bugs and issues. Some features may also be missing.
How to Download DuckDuckGo’s Windows Browser
You can install DuckDuckGo for Windows on its official website. When you enter the page, it will automatically download. If not, then click Try downloading again on the page. Click on the download file to begin the installation process.
When the dialog box appears, click on Install. You can choose whether to launch DuckDuckGo when it’s ready by clicking the checkbox on the left. Now, wait for the application to install.
DuckDuckGo will automatically launch, or you can manually launch it whenever. You can use the Windows version on your browser.
What Does DuckDuckGo’s Windows Browser Include?
Mac and Windows should see equivalency between the versions of the browser, since both versions offer the same features.
For instance, the Windows version provides users with its fire button that erases everything in one click. Also included is Duck Player, a YouTube player that prevents video views from influencing recommendations and allows you to watch videos without invading ads.
In addition, DuckDuckGo delivers tracker prevention that exceeds Chrome and other browsers. For example, its third-party Tracker Loading Protection prevents hidden trackers like Google and Facebook from lurking on websites from loading.
Finally, its Cookie Pop-up Management automatically selects private alternatives and hides cookie consent pop-ups. Along those lines is a fireproof option, which allows you to stay logged into any site you want.
Furthermore, DuckDuckGo offers a strong cross-platform that competes with Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge. The browser is also compatible with iOS and Android.
DuckDuckGo, however, currently lacks browser extension support but plans to add this in the future. Meanwhile, the browser has designed features that fulfill the exact requirements of many widely-used extensions.
What’s Next for DuckDuckGo?
Currently, the browser is working to achieve full parity with Mac browsers, including faster startups, HTML bookmark import, pinned tabs, additional fire button options, and more privacy features, such as fingerprinting and link tracking protection.
Moreover, Product Director Peter Dolanjski states that DuckDuckGo intends to open-source its browser, much like its apps and extensions. Since DuckDuckGo relies on Microsoft and Bing for its search results and advertising, its relationship with Microsoft has been intriguing.
Should You Switch to DuckDuckGo?
DuckDuckGo is the go-to for browsing the web privately with its commitment to user anonymity, data protection, and search results that don’t compromise privacy for a more private browsing experience.
With growing concerns about data breaches and online tracking, DuckDuckGo stands out as a compelling alternative to private browsing. But will you switch from your current browser to DuckDuckGo? There’s no harm in using multiple browsers.
Before its full release, the public beta serves as a preview of what Windows users can expect. Would you consider using DuckDuckGo as a search engine?
