Being based out of New York City here in the States it’s easy to overlook Yandex – Russia’s premier search giant. However the search giant is far from being forgotten as they announce the release of a new alpha version of its browser. Yes I know – They have a browser? Yep. Since 2012 Yandex has been producing their own browser based on the Chromium open source project.
The new streamlined Yandex.Browser is definitely a new step in its evolution. In an effort to allow users to experience their favorite websites as applications rather than simply websites – the new browser focuses on a very minimalistic design – running different websites in different tabs much like Windows 8 treats applications. It is designed to respond to all the current needs of a web user, which aren’t limited to mere browsing, but now also include shopping, reading websites in a foreign language, booking flights, trains, taxies or hotel rooms and restaurant tables.
Having been using it for a couple of days now I have to say I love it. The transparent theme of the browser which integrates itself into every website is simply beautiful. The navigation between tabs is clean, and all around it’s just a pleasure to use.
Those of you interesting in trying out the new alpha version of the Yandex Browser can do so here. Otherwise I will leave you with the following video by the Yandex team showcasing the new browser.