Download.it search icon
Advertisement

Privacy comes first with this web browser

Privacy comes first with this web browser

Vote: (2 votes)

Program license: Free

Developer: Dooble Web Browser

Version: 1.44_

Works under: Windows

Also available for Mac

Vote:

Program license

(2 votes)

Free

Developer

Version

Dooble Web Browser

1.44_

Works under:

Also available for

Windows

Mac

Pros

  • Open-source and privacy-focused design
  • Built on the powerful WebKit engine
  • Includes RetroShare for private communications
  • Automatic history clearance on browser exit
  • Customizable settings and security options

Cons

  • Search results may default to German
  • Occasional issues with font size consistency
  • Lacks some modern features found in competitors

Introduction to Dooble Web Browser

Dooble is an open-source web browser that prioritizes secure and expeditious internet browsing. Utilizing the WebKit rendering engine, which powers renowned browsers like Safari and Google Chrome, Dooble has carved out a niche for itself largely through its robust focus on user security and privacy.

Core Features & Performance

The incorporation of RetroShare is one of Dooble's distinctive features, allowing users enhanced privacy for sending emails and transferring files. Moreover, this integration extends to a built-in chat service, providing users a seamless communication experience within the browser environment.

By default, Dooble takes a hardened stance on privacy, with cookies and JavaScript disabled out of the box. This preemptive measure aligns with the browser's security philosophy, though users can adjust these settings to suit their preferences. Dooble further bolsters privacy by automatically eradicating the browsing history upon exit, reducing the chance of leaving digital footprints.

Customization options are readily accessible through the settings menu, facilitating changes to the browser's behavior and appearance. Users can enjoy tabbed browsing, quick access to bookmarks via keypad shortcuts, and a selection of search engines to tailor their web exploration.

Usability Concerns

Despite these strengths, Dooble's usability does have some areas that could be improved. A peculiar issue some users may encounter is that the browser’s search functionality tends to display results in German by default, regardless of the set language preference. Additionally, there has been feedback about font sizes spontaneously reducing to barely readable levels after unrelated settings alterations.

Technical Tweaks and UI Enhancements

The development team behind Dooble is proactive in refining the browser's performance and user interface. Changes in recent updates include an intuitive mechanism for setting icons on the URL bar, JavaScript controls to manage the visibility of menu elements, and a singular tab view option for a streamlined visual layout.

Enhancements in file management have been made, exemplified by the improved handling of download dialogs and modification of the Downloads window. Adjustments to proxy settings accessibility, URL retrieval for history records, and an inclusive approach to collecting download details demonstrate Dooble's commitment to a user-centric experience.

Overall Assessment

Dooble does not aim to reinvent the web browser but instead provides a reliable channel for navigating the internet with an emphasis on user privacy and security. While it may not boast cutting-edge innovation, it stands firm as a specialized alternative to mainstream browsers.

Pros

  • Open-source and privacy-focused design
  • Built on the powerful WebKit engine
  • Includes RetroShare for private communications
  • Automatic history clearance on browser exit
  • Customizable settings and security options

Cons

  • Search results may default to German
  • Occasional issues with font size consistency
  • Lacks some modern features found in competitors