Version 4.0 supports content blocker plugins for use on Samsung Galaxy devices, along with some other privacy-focused features that might interest those who want their data under a stronger lock and key.
You’ll need Samsung Internet and a third-party blocker, like AdBlock Plus or Adblock Fast, to start surfing the web with far less advertisements.
Another key feature is what’s called Secret Mode, which like Chrome’s Incognito mode doesn’t keep track of your browsing history. You can also use use your device’s fingerprint authentication to encrypt your Internet history, using the same technology as Samsung’s Knox security software. However, you’ll need to be have a device in the Galaxy S6 or S7 family to do so.
Ad-blocking got off to a rocky start, as Google initially banished Adblock Fast but then reinstated it to the Play Store. Given that advertising remains the bulk of Google’s revenue, don’t expect to see any type of capability come to Chrome.
The impact on you: The security features in Samsung Internet are a nice to have, and they’re probably worth exploring if you have one of the newer flagships. However, ad blocking remains a controversial practice. Yes, too many ads are oppressive and take over the whole screen when you open a page, which can make the browsing experience extremely irritating. But ads are still what keeps a lot of publishers in business, and more of them are using software to block the blockers to ensure that their bottom line doesn’t take even more of a hit.