Ulaa

Despite all of the privacy concerns that have enveloped the internet over the last few years or so, the number of browsers that seek to protect the user's identity and prevent data collection is rising. With more such browsers on the market, users can shop around and pick what best fits their workflows.

A new browser comes in the form of Ulaa, which is a privacy-first solution where users are able to surf the web without the fear of being subjected to data collection. Featuring a built-in ad-blocker, as well as several modes that enhance certain workflows, this Chromium browser should be an interesting one.

If user bases are anything to go by, Chromium browsers enjoy an overwhelming majority status, so this one should feel no less familiar than Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, and other similar mainstream browsers. What's mainly changed here is under the hood.

Additional privacy protections have been put in place to help ensure that users can surf the web privately. For starters, the browser comes with a built-in ad-blocker, which worked fine and prevented ads from being shown on the pages we visited.

Clicking on the ad-blocker will reveal the blocked items for the respective page. If you're the more adventurous type, you can disable the ad-blocker altogether, but that's not really recommended unless you're having problems browsing certain domains.

The Privacy Report feature does well to keep the user posted about the browser's efforts to curb data collection. Details about the blocked trackers, requests received and blocked, as well as the specific domains that have tried profiling you, are all there.

As far as the Settings menus are concerned, it's all pretty standard for a Chromium browser. Some additional protections can be configured under the Privacy and Security tab, however.

You can opt for more hardened protection at the cost of less stability across the web. Additional settings, such as blocking fingerprinting, crypto mining, pop-ups, filtering social media, are available and can be toggled as you see fit.

The browser comes with different modes that cater for certain workflows. Work Mode blocks distracting websites altogether and helps you focus on productivity, while Developer Mode is meant to help web developers be more proficient with their work. Interestingly enough, Developer Mode will suggest a few extensions to install from the jump, which may come in handy for some.

Most users will want to use Personal Mode, which strikes a balance between privacy and performance, all without running the risk of breaking some websites. If you're feeling more daring, then the Open Season Mode, which disables all security protections, might be something to keep in mind.

Of course, with this being a Chromium browser and all, new extensions can be freely installed from the Chrome Web Store without any trouble.

If you're not a fan of the current Chromium offerings, then perhaps Ulaa might be for you. It's got some nice-to-have privacy protections, and it's generally a pretty configurable browser, which should give users plenty to work with.