In brief

  • Brave added Binance crypto buying, selling, and trading to its web browser.
  • The integration will protect users’ privacy by being remotely embedded.
  • Earlier this month, Brave announced an expansion of its in-browser rewards.

The crypto browser wars are heating up. Brave announced on Tuesday it has partnered with crypto trading giant Binance to introduce in-browser trading. The integration will allow users on Brave’s browser to trade cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ether, Ripple, and Litecoin on Binance through a built-in widget.

“By bringing a leading exchange like Binance directly into the browser, Brave is taking cryptocurrency trading mainstream and enabling users to conduct transactions with ease,” said Brave CEO and co-founder Brendan Eich in a press release. 

According to Brave, the privacy of their users will be protected by ensuring the widget is embedded remotely; some third-party plugins leave users vulnerable to malware and other security risks. 

“The Binance widget on Brave’s privacy-oriented browser instills a safer way to buy and sell crypto and also reduces user friction to onboard, trade and interact with the Binance ecosystem,” added Binance CEO Changpeng Zhao (CZ). 

As part of the launch, the widget is available to Brave users on its “Nightly” desktop version. Access will be expanded to its general desktop app next month, with the mobile versions set for a later date. 

The news comes as other browsers have added crypto features. Brave competitor and old-school browser Opera added in-browser crypto purchasing last week. Earlier this month, Brave expanded its rewards program. That allows users to earn its native BAT token for watching ads in browsers, tip publishers, and exchange for rewards like Uber rides and flight discounts with more than 250,000 partners.

As more browsers add crypto integration, the vision for an internet with native currencies is gradually becoming a reality.

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