Wikipedia

Samsung Internet

The Samsung Internet Browser is a web browser developed by Samsung Electronics It was first released in 2012 as a basic mobile browser on Samsung Galaxy devices. Now, it is a feature-rich application that is available on Android and Windows platforms.[1][2]

Samsung Internet Browser
Developer(s)Samsung Electronics
Operating systemAndroid, Tizen, Wear OS
TypeWeb browser
WebsiteOfficial website

Samsung estimated that it had around 400 million monthly active users in 2016. According to StatCounter, it had a market share of around 5.06% (among 69.37% for all Chrome variants) in January 2023.[3]

In November 2023, Samsung Internet was released on Microsoft Windows via the Microsoft Store. Its Windows release is currently unavailable, having been inexplicably removed from the Microsoft Store in January 2024.[4]

Engine

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Chromium-Based Foundation: Samsung Internet Browser’s engine is based on Chromium, which is known for its fast performance, high security, and strong support for modern web standards. Using Chromium ensures the browser is compatible with most websites and web applications. This provides users with a smooth and reliable browsing experience. By using Chromium, Samsung Internet Browser has a robust, secure, and feature-rich foundation. This keeps the browser on par with other leading web browsers in terms of speed and reliability.[5][6]

Optimizations for Samsung Devices: While the Chromium engine provides a solid base, Samsung has implemented several optimizations to ensure that its browser is particularly well-suited to Samsung’s hardware and ecosystem. The optimizations include enhanced resource management. This allows the browser to perform efficiently. This is even when multiple tabs are open or when handling resource-intensive websites. The browser is also fine-tuned. It works seamlessly with Samsung's custom hardware. This includes the Exynos and Snapdragon processors. This ensures smooth performance across different Galaxy devices.[7]

Enhanced Rendering and Graphics: Samsung has focused on improving the rendering engine within its browser. This delivers a superior visual experience. The browser's engine is optimized for high-resolution displays. This includes the displays on Samsung's flagship Galaxy devices. This ensures crisp and clear rendering of text, images, and videos. Additionally, the browser supports advanced graphics technologies like WebGL. This enables interactive 3D graphics within the browser without the need for additional plugins. This makes Samsung Internet Browser a powerful tool. It allows users to experience rich media content and complex web applications.[8]

Performance and Speed: Samsung Internet Browser delivers fast page load times and smooth scrolling consistently. The browser's engine is designed to efficiently handle JavaScript, CSS, and HTML5. These are essential for modern web applications. The engine's ability to quickly parse and execute JavaScript ensures that websites load quickly and run smoothly. This is even when they rely on complex scripts and dynamic content. Samsung Internet Browser also benefits from an advanced multi-process architecture. In this architecture, different parts of the browser run in separate processes. These parts include the rendering engine, networking, and user interface. This architecture enhances stability and security. It isolates different components. This ensures that a crash in one part of the browser does not affect the entire application.

Security and Updates: Samsung Internet Browser's engine has several layers of protection to guard against malicious websites and attacks. This is because security is very important in web browsers. The browser is regularly updated with the latest security patches from the Chromium project. This ensures that users are protected against emerging threats. Additionally, Samsung's own security enhancements, such as the integration of Smart Anti-Tracking and other privacy features, work together with the browser's engine. This provides a secure browsing environment. Samsung Internet Browser's engine also supports regular updates. This allows Samsung to continuously improve the browser with new features, performance enhancements, and security updates. These updates are crucial in maintaining the browser's competitiveness and ensuring that it remains compatible with evolving web standards.

Energy Efficiency: On mobile devices, battery life is very important. Samsung has made the browser's engine more energy-efficient. The engine is designed to use less CPU and GPU power. This happens when rendering web pages and playing media content. This optimization helps the battery last longer. Users can browse the web for longer without needing to recharge. The browser's Dark Mode also helps with energy efficiency. This is powered by the engine's rendering capabilities. Dark Mode reduces the power used by OLED screens.[9]

Integration with Samsung Ecosystem: The engine is integrated with the Samsung ecosystem. This allows features like Samsung DeX, SmartThings, and Samsung Cloud to work well within the browser. When using Samsung DeX, the engine adapts. This provides a desktop-like browsing experience. It has support for multitasking, drag-and-drop, and desktop-class rendering. The integration extends the capabilities of the browser. It makes the browser a central component of Samsung's connected ecosystem, beyond simple web browsing.[10]

Future-Proofing: Samsung continues to invest in the development of its browser engine. This ensures that the engine remains future-proof as web technologies evolve. The engine is regularly updated. This allows it to support the latest web standards. These standards include new HTML5 and CSS3 features. The engine also supports emerging technologies like Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) and WebAssembly. This forward-looking approach ensures that Samsung Internet Browser remains a cutting-edge tool for users. This allows the browser to handle the next generation of web applications and services.[11]

Key features

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Samsung Internet Browser is a popular web browser. It has many features. The features are for both casual and power users. This makes it one of the most comprehensive web browsers today. The key features that make it unique are discussed below.

Privacy and Security

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Privacy and security are very important in the design of Samsung Internet Browser. Many people are worried about their data privacy these days. So, Samsung has added several advanced features to protect users from being tracked or having their data stolen.

  • Smart Anti-Tracking: This feature blocks trackers that try to monitor your online activities across websites. It is an intelligent system that continuously adapts to block new trackers. This ensures your browsing remains private. Smart Anti-Tracking prevents third-party cookies and other tracking mechanisms from following you. This helps safeguard your personal information and browsing habits from being exploited for targeted advertising or other intrusive purposes.[12]
  • Secret Mode: The Samsung Internet Browser's Secret Mode is made for private browsing. It makes sure that your browsing history, cookies, and other data are not saved. This mode is great for times when you need to keep your online activities private. What makes Secret Mode even more secure is that it's connected to biometric authentication. This adds an extra layer of protection.
  • Biometric Authentication: To enhance security, Samsung Internet Browser allows users to secure their Secret Mode and other sensitive areas of the browser with biometric authentication. Users can use their fingerprint or facial recognition to access private browsing sessions or other protected settings. This ensures that even if someone gains physical access to the device, they won't be able to view the user's private data without their consent. The browser uses biometric authentication to secure the private areas. Users can use their fingerprint or facial recognition to access the private browsing sessions and other protected settings. This feature ensures that the private data remains secure even if someone else has physical access to the device.[13]

Customization

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Samsung Internet Browser allows users to customize their browsing experience. Users can change the settings to match their personal preferences.

  • Ad Blockers: The browser supports third-party ad blockers. This allows users to browse the web without intrusive ads. This not only improves page load times but also reduces data usage. It also enhances users overall browsing experience by eliminating unwanted distractions. Users can choose from a variety of ad blockers available in the Samsung Internet Browser's extensions store.[14]
  • Extensions: Samsung Internet Browser offers a range of extensions beyond ad blockers. These extensions add functionality and convenience. The extensions include translation tools for multilingual browsing. They also include content blockers for a more streamlined experience. Additionally, the extensions include utilities that improve productivity. The availability of these extensions makes Samsung Internet Browser a versatile tool. It can meet diverse user needs.
  • Toolbar Customization: Personalization extends to the browser's toolbar. Users can customize the layout. They can include their most frequently used features. This flexibility allows you to streamline your browsing experience. You can place essential tools and shortcuts within easy reach. This enhances efficiency and usability.[15]

User Experience

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  • Dark Mode: The browser has a built-in Dark Mode. This feature changes the color scheme of the interface to darker tones. Dark Mode is helpful for users who browse at night or in low-light environments. It reduces eye strain. Dark Mode can also help save battery life on devices with OLED screens. This makes it a functional and energy-efficient option.
  • High Performance: Samsung Internet Browser is optimized for fast browsing and smooth scrolling, especially on Samsung devices. The browser's engine is designed to handle complex web pages and multimedia content with ease. This ensures a responsive and lag-free experience. You can open multiple tabs, stream videos, or navigate graphic-intensive sites. The browser maintains high performance levels and offers a seamless user experience.
  • Video Assistant: The Video Assistant feature is for users who watch videos online often. It lets users play videos in a pop-up player and browse other sites while watching. The Video Assistant also has easy-to-use video controls. can adjust the playback speed and use picture-in-picture mode. These features enhance the overall experience of consuming media.[16]

Integration

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The Samsung Internet Browser is deeply integrated with the broader Samsung ecosystem. This makes it an important part of a connected digital life.

  • Samsung Cloud Sync: The browser connects with Samsung Cloud. This allows users to sync bookmarks, open tabs, saved pages, and browsing history across multiple devices. Users browsing experience will be the same whether you are using your smartphone, tablet, or Windows PC. Samsung Cloud Sync is very useful for people who often switch between devices. It keeps all your data in sync and accessible from anywhere.[17][18]
  • SmartThings Integration: Samsung Internet Browser integrates with Samsung's IoT platform, SmartThings. This allows you to manage and control your smart home devices directly from the browser. It provides a seamless experience for users who are deeply embedded in the Samsung ecosystem. You can adjust the thermostat, check security cameras, or control other connected devices without leaving the browser.
  • Samsung DeX Support: Samsung DeX allows you to connect your Samsung device to a monitor, keyboard, and mouse. This turns your mobile device into a desktop computer. When you use the Samsung Internet Browser in DeX mode, you get a full desktop-like browsing experience. You can enjoy a more productive and immersive browsing experience. This includes features like multiple windows, drag-and-drop functionality, and desktop-class web browsing capabilities.[19]

Support

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The latest version As of 12/Aug/2024 (v25.0.1.3) of Samsung Internet for Android supports all Android 7.0 and above versions of android.[20]

Previously, (v5.0) Samsung Internet for Android was only supported on Samsung Galaxy and Google Nexus phones with Android 5.0 and above.[21]

Version history

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Samsung Internet replaced the stock Android browser as the default on Samsung Galaxy devices in 2012.[22]

Version Based upon Release date New features
1.0 Chromium 18 2012
1.5 Chromium 28
2.0 Chromium 34
3.0 Chromium 38 August 2015 Quick Access, Navigation Page, Shortcut Promotion Banner, Audio Notification, Data Saving Mode[23]
4.0 Chromium 44 early 2016 secret mode, content cards, a floating video, a video history feature, web push, service workers, custom tabs, and a content blocker extension.[24][25]
4.2 Chromium 44 October 4, 2016 Iris Scanner Support in Secret Mode and Web Auto Login, Web Content Provider Extension, QR Code reader, Video Assistant, 360° Video Support[26]
5.0 Chromium 51 December 16, 2016 web payment and an enhanced video assistant.[27][28]
5.2 Chromium 51 February, 2017 Samsung Dex Support, CloseBy, Web Payment-Deep integration with Samsung Pay, Progressive Web App indication badge[29]
5.4 Chromium 51 Beta March 2017[30]

Stable May 2017[31]

tab navigation with a swipe gesture, a quick menu, an enhanced navigation page (China only), and a content blocker status UI (in menu).[32]
6.0 Chromium 56 September 8, 2017
6.2 Chromium 56 October 30, 2017 high contrast mode and night mode.[33][34]
6.4 Chromium 56 February 19, 2018 download manager and enabled Web Bluetooth by default.[35][36]
7.0 Chromium 59 March 7, 2018
7.2 Chromium 59 June 7, 2018 WebGL2, Intersection Observer, Web Assembly and Protected Browsing.[37]
7.4 Chromium 59 August 19, 2018 authentication with Intelligent Scan, a customised Reader Mode and Download History improvements.[38]
8.0 Chromium 63 August, 2018
8.2 Chromium 63 December 21, 2018 improved Download Manager, an improved Reader Mode, bug fixes and stabilization, and quick access sync via Smart Switch.[39]
9.0 Chromium 67 February 20, 2019 One UI support[40]
9.2 Chromium 67 April 2, 2019 removed the "video assistant" extension that was added in previous versions as a "quick menu", adding a redesigned app icon, a further redesigned user interface and respective one-handedness, Smart Anti-Tracking, an option to turn on Save All Images, as well as bug fixes and stabilization.
9.2.10.15 Chromium 67 May 19, 2019 a +10 and -10 sec seek function for YouTube web videos, optimized RAM usage, and fixed two bugs affecting Dark Mode and the Iris auto login in DeX Mode.
9.4 Chromium 67 July 22, 2019 a QR Code reader, a Tab manager for tablet devices, a Notification manager for Web pushes, History navigation in each tab, video autoplay control, a Rename function while doing "add to home screen", and a Pause/Resume function for "Save all images", in addition to bug fixes and stabilization.[41]
10.0 Chromium 71 August, 2019
10.1.00.27 Chromium 71 September 8, 2019 Quick Access data synchronization and an even furthered refined user interface, and including bug fixes and stabilization.
10.1.01.3 Chromium 71 October 3, 2019 fixed bugs affecting mirroring in Bookmarks, History and Saved pages for right-to-left languages and refined the user interface again.
10.2.00.53 Chromium 71 November 24, 2019 Video assistant, a Contact us icon, a feature which allows which apps use Samsung Internet, a customizable menu, a renewed Tab manager, a once again refined user interface, an improved high contrast mode and bug fixes and stabilizations.[42]
10.2.01.10 Chromium 71 January 14, 2020 an optional Picture-In-Picture video, fingerprint-enabled Easy sign-in in Samsung DeX stand-alone mode, an enhanced scroll capture and fixes crashes caused by certain conditions.
11.0 Chromium 75 February, 2020 One UI 2.0 support, Credential Management API support, Browser Extensions (which require Android Marshmallow or later and a Galaxy Store account)[43]
11.1.1.52 Chromium 75 February 25, 2020 A redesigned Go to Top button and UI, Quick access, bug fixes and stabilization, and improving performance.
11.2 Chromium 75 March 1, 2020 Smart protection, Support for more buttons in Customize menu, Increase max number of open tabs to 99, Additional search engines, Address & card sync via Samsung Pass, News notifications (India and China), Usability enhancements for tablet devices[44]
12.0.1.47 Chromium 79 June 19, 2020 Open links in secret mode from the context menu, more password manager apps are allowed to autofill ID and passwords, and stability and security improvements.[45]
13.0.1.64 Chromium 83 November 19, 2020 Hide status bar option for Infinity Display, Enhanced Smart Protection, Additional gesture support in Video Assistant[46]
14.0.1.62 Chromium 87 Beta March 2021[47]

Stable April 17, 2021

Security Control Panel for Enhanced Privacy, Apply device font settings to web pages (in Labs), Enhanced Smart Anti-Tracking (v3.0)[48]
15.0.2.47 Chromium 90[49] Beta July 2021[50]

Stable August 28, 2021

Introduce Smart Protection, a technology to protect users against fingerprinting. Quick Search and Fast Navigation to make it easier to search for information from the home screen. WebXR Lighting Estimation API.
16.0.2.19 Chromium 92

Stable November 26, 2021[51]

17.0.6.9 Chromium 96

Stable June 14, 2022[52]

18.0 Chromium 99 Beta June 28, 2022[53]

Stable August 6, 2022

Toolbar customization, CNAME Cloaking Protection
19.0 Chromium 102 Beta August 23, 2022[54]

Stable November 1, 2022

WebXR Incubations
20.0 Chromium 106 Beta Dec 20, 2022

Stable February 19, 2023

Bookmarks folder search
21.0 Chromium 110 Beta April 18, 2023[55]
22.0 Chromium 111 Stable July 14, 2023
23.0 Chromium 115 Stable October 18, 2023[56] Increased number of days of History saved, support of URL auto-complete in address bar, new support for syncing tab groups
24.0 Chromium 117
25.0 Chromium 121 Attribution reporting (experimental, requires flag to enable)

References

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  2. ^ "Get Samsung's Internet Browser on Almost Any Android Device". Gadget Hacks. 7 March 2017. Retrieved 2018-04-08.
  3. ^ "Mobile Browser Market Share Worldwide". StatCounter. Retrieved 2022-01-16.
  4. ^ Beri, Devesh (2024-01-15). "Samsung's browser 'Internet' mysteriously taken off the Microsoft Store". MSPoweruser. Retrieved 2024-04-11.
  5. ^ "Samsung Internet Week: Why is Internet as popular as it is?".
  6. ^ "Samsung Internet 15 update brings a new widget and updated Chromium engine".
  7. ^ "Samsung Internet: Everything you need to know".
  8. ^ "Samsung Internet Developer Hub".
  9. ^ "The Potential of 5G RedCap and Energy Efficiency".
  10. ^ "User Guide] Expanding the Galaxy Ecosystem: Ultimate Connected Experiences Between Galaxy Devices".
  11. ^ "Enjoy easy, fast and secure web surfing".
  12. ^ "Samsung Internet - Build". Samsung Developers.
  13. ^ "Samsung Internet 4.0 rolling out to older Galaxy devices and variants running Lollipop". 9to5Google. 28 March 2016. Retrieved 2018-04-08.
  14. ^ "Samsung is now allowing users to install ad blockers on its phones". BGR. 2 February 2016. Retrieved 2018-04-08.
  15. ^ "8 Lesser-Known Features in Samsung Internet That You Should Be Using".
  16. ^ "15 awesome Samsung Internet tips and tricks".
  17. ^ "samsung galaxy s 3 - Where are saved pages stored?". Android Enthusiasts Stack Exchange. 2012-10-15.
  18. ^ "Regarding saved webpages". Samsung Developers Forum. 23 June 2020.
  19. ^ "Samsung Internet for Gear VR Overview". Samsung Developers. Retrieved 2018-04-08.
  20. ^ "Samsung Internet v6.2 is Now Stable, Adds Night Mode, Tracking Blocker and More". XDA Developers. 31 October 2017. Retrieved 2018-04-08.
  21. ^ "Announcing Samsung Internet 5.0". Medium. 23 December 2016. Retrieved 2018-04-08.
  22. ^ "Samsung Internet Overview". Samsung Developers. Retrieved 2018-04-08.
  23. ^ "Samsung Internet Release Notes". Samsung Developers. Retrieved 2023-11-08.
  24. ^ "Samsung Internet for Android 4.0 Release Note". Samsung Newsroom. Archived from the original on 2017-11-04. Retrieved 2018-04-08.
  25. ^ "Samsung Internet 4.0 and Cross App Boost Functionality for Galaxy Devices with Android 6.0 Marshmallow Update". Samsung Newsroom. Retrieved 2018-04-08.
  26. ^ "Samsung Internet Release Notes". Samsung Developers. Retrieved 2023-11-08.
  27. ^ "Samsung Internet for Android 5.0 Release Note". Samsung Developers. Archived from the original on 2017-11-04. Retrieved 2018-04-08.
  28. ^ "Announcing Samsung Internet 5.0". Medium. 23 December 2016. Retrieved 2018-04-08.
  29. ^ "Samsung Internet Release Notes". Samsung Developers. Retrieved 2023-11-08.
  30. ^ "Samsung Internet Beta now available without sign up". Medium. 7 March 2017. Retrieved 2018-04-08.
  31. ^ "Announcing Samsung Internet v5.4 stable!". Medium. 17 May 2017. Retrieved 2018-04-08.
  32. ^ "Samsung Internet for Android 5.4 Release Note". Samsung Developers. Archived from the original on 2017-11-04. Retrieved 2018-04-08.
  33. ^ "Samsung Internet for Android 6.2 Release Note". Samsung Developers. Archived from the original on 2017-11-04. Retrieved 2018-04-08.
  34. ^ "Samsung Internet v6.2 Now Stable!". Medium. 30 October 2017. Retrieved 2018-04-08.
  35. ^ "Samsung Internet for Android 6.4 Release Note". Samsung Developers. Archived from the original on 2017-11-04. Retrieved 2018-08-25.
  36. ^ "Let's connect with Samsung Internet v6.4 stable!". Medium. 19 February 2018. Retrieved 2018-08-25.
  37. ^ "7.2 Stable is Here!". Medium. 20 June 2018. Retrieved 2018-08-25.
  38. ^ "Samsung Internet 7.4 is stable—let's check-out what's new". Medium. 12 September 2018. Retrieved 2018-09-15.
  39. ^ "8.2 Stable Release is out the Door". Medium. 21 December 2018. Retrieved 2018-12-30.
  40. ^ "Samsung Internet Release Notes". Samsung Developers. Retrieved 2023-11-08.
  41. ^ "9.4 is Here!". Medium. 25 July 2019. Retrieved 2020-01-09.
  42. ^ "Samsung Internet 10.2 Beta". Medium. 9 October 2019. Retrieved 2020-01-09.
  43. ^ "Samsung Internet Release Notes". Samsung Developers. Retrieved 2023-11-08.
  44. ^ "Samsung Internet Release Notes". Samsung Developers. Retrieved 2023-11-08.
  45. ^ "Samsung Internet for Android 12 Release Notes". Samsung Developers. Retrieved 2020-07-29.
  46. ^ "Samsung Internet for Android 13 Release Notes". Samsung Developers. Retrieved 2021-03-12.
  47. ^ "Introducing Samsung Internet 14.0 Beta". Medium. 9 March 2021. Retrieved 2021-04-09.
  48. ^ "Samsung Internet for Android 14 Release Notes". Samsung Developers. Retrieved 2021-04-29.
  49. ^ "Samsung Internet 15 update brings a new widget and updated Chromium engine". XDA Developers. 16 August 2021. Retrieved 2023-11-08.
  50. ^ "Samsung Internet 15.0 Beta Has Arrived". Samsung Mobile Press | Samsung Mobile press Official website. Retrieved 2021-07-14.
  51. ^ "Samsung Internet Browser | Latest Version 16.0".
  52. ^ "Samsung Internet 17.0 Puts Privacy and Security Front and Center".
  53. ^ Appelquist, Daniel (2022-06-28). "18.0 Beta: Enhanced Privacy, Enhanced UI". Samsung Internet Developers. Retrieved 2022-06-28.
  54. ^ "Samsung Internet 19.0 Beta is Now Available".
  55. ^ Im, Dongwoo (2023-04-18). "Samsung Internet v21.0 Beta : Enhanced customization for your convenience". Samsung Internet Developers. Retrieved 2023-06-29.
  56. ^ Joshua Im, Dongwoo (22 February 2024). "Samsung Internet v23.0 Stable, coming with enhanced security and convenience". Medium.
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