Brave browser now offers a “Request Off-The-Record (OTR)” feature, providing enhanced privacy for users sharing a computer. Similar to Incognito mode in other browsers like Chrome, OTR prevents websites from being stored in browsing history, cookies, or temporary files.
Activating and Using Brave’s OTR Feature
To utilize OTR, you must first enable it within Brave’s settings. Navigate to brave://flags in the address bar, search for “Enable Request-OTR Tab,” and select “Enable” from the dropdown menu. A browser restart is required to activate the feature.
Websites implement OTR by adding Request-OTR: 1 to their header. When visiting an OTR-enabled site, Brave prompts you to open the site confidentially. Selecting “Yes” creates a temporary storage area for caches, cookies, and authorizations, which is automatically deleted upon leaving the website.
Brave OTR vs. Incognito Mode
While similar to Incognito mode, Brave’s OTR relies on website implementation. This offers a more granular approach to privacy, allowing specific websites to be treated confidentially without affecting other browsing sessions.
OTR Availability and Future Potential
Brave OTR requires browser version 1.53 or later. Check your current version via the “About Brave” menu. While the feature is promising, adoption by websites is currently limited. For broader private browsing needs, Incognito mode in Firefox or other browsers might be a more practical solution until OTR gains wider support.
Conclusion: A Step Towards Granular Privacy Control
Brave’s OTR feature introduces a nuanced approach to online privacy, offering users more control over their browsing data on shared computers. While limited in current availability, its potential for enhancing online privacy is significant, providing a valuable tool for users seeking greater control over their digital footprint.
