The internet has become an integral part of our daily lives. We rely on it for work, entertainment, communication and more. But what if your everyday web browsing could also provide additional value beyond accessing information? A new breed of web browsers aims to do just that by rewarding users as they surf the net.
In this article, we'll explore how modern web browsers are incentivizing usage through built-in rewards programs. Earning cashback, cryptocurrency and other benefits is now possible simply by using specially designed browsers. We'll analyze the top options that turn idle browsing into a money-making endeavor.
Overview of Rewarding Web Browsers
The web browsers we'll cover include:
Brave - Privacy-focused browser that rewards users with cryptocurrency for viewing advertisements
Opera - Grants cashback and other savings from online purchases
Microsoft Edge - Integrates with Microsoft services to provide points redeemable for gift cards and other perks
CryptoTab - Mines bitcoin in the background while users browse
Gener8 - Displays ads and pays users a share of ad revenue in points
While their exact mechanisms vary, these browsers create new value for users beyond just accessing the web. Let's look at how each one functions.
Brave Browser: Earn Cryptocurrency
Brave is an open-source browser created by the co-founder of Mozilla focused on privacy protection. It blocks ads and website trackers by default. But Brave also provides an opt-in system called Brave Rewards that shares ad revenue with users in the form of cryptocurrency.
To start earning, enable Brave Rewards in your browser settings. Then you can choose to view Brave Ads which appear as system notifications separate from your browsing. Each ad seen earns you Basic Attention Tokens (BAT), Brave's cryptocurrency, paid out monthly.
The more ads you voluntarily view, the higher your earnings potential. Even just having ads enabled passivey generates revenue. Best of all, the system is totally private - Brave does not collect or share your data.
For publishers, Brave allows users to also send BAT tips for content they appreciate. Overall, Brave Rewards provides a privacy-first model that pays users for their attention and engagement.
Opera: Browser-Based Cashback
Another popular browser, Opera, features a loyalty program called Opera Rewards. It provides cashback on purchases made through the browser. Opera users earn points on every dollar spent which translate to savings.
To get started, create an Opera account and link it to the browser. Shop online at thousands of partnered retailers through the Opera browser. Transactions made generate points based on the cashback percentage offered. More points earn you a higher cashback rate.
Accumulate points to increase your savings potential. The cashback earnings can be cashed out anytime to a connected PayPal account. Opera Rewards turns routine online shopping into a way to earn real money back.
Microsoft Edge: Earn Rewards for Microsoft Activities
Microsoft's Edge browser integrates directly with Microsoft services to reward activity. The Microsoft Rewards system offers points for using Bing as your search engine, shopping at Microsoft's store, playing Xbox games and more.
Edge users specifically earn points for every Bing search performed. Completing daily tasks and quizzes in the Microsoft Rewards app generates further points. Overall Microsoft product usage is incentivized.
While limited to Microsoft's ecosystem, accumulated points can be redeemed for gift cards, sweepstakes entries and nonprofit donations. For those invested in Microsoft services, Microsoft Rewards creates additional value from routine usage.
CryptoTab: Passive Bitcoin Mining
The CryptoTab browser takes a completely unique approach to rewards. It leverages your device's computing resources to passively mine bitcoin as you browse. Built-in mining software runs in the background as you surf the web normally.
After creating a CryptoTab account, mining bitcoin is as simple as opening a tab in the browser. Adjust your desired mining speed higher to increase earnings or lower to conserve device resources. Due to intelligent utilization of unused system resources, regular browsing remains unaffected.
Mined bitcoin is directly deposited into your CryptoTab account wallet. The platform also offers a referral program for inviting others to maximize profit potential. For those interested in crypto, CryptoTab makes mining accessible to anyone.
Gener8: Get Paid to View Ads
A newer browser, Gener8 operates similar to Brave in sharing ad revenue with users. But instead of cryptocurrency, it provides points redeemable for gift cards and vouchers.
When using Gener8, you can toggle between standard ad-blocking mode for privacy or rewards mode to earn points. With rewards mode enabled, you'll occasionally see ads that contribute to your points balance when clicked or closed.
An account is required to collect points which can then be exchanged for popular gift cards or cash to a PayPal account. Gener8 provides a simple way to passively earn real monetary value during routine web use.
Closing Thoughts
Typical web browsers solely focus on access and performance. But these featured options open up new possibilities by making casual browsing mutually beneficial for users and platforms.
Whether your goal is privacy protection, cashback savings or passive income, these browsers cater to different priorities. For those turned off by traditional online advertising models, it also represents a shift in power and control.
As the digital landscape continues evolving, expect more technology and services aiming to add value, not just take it. The web browsers highlighted here represent early attempts to build solutions where everyone wins.