Torch Browser is a freeware Chromium based web browser and Internet suite developed by Torch Media.[1] The browser handles common Internet-related tasks such as displaying websites, sharing websites via social networks, downloading torrents, accelerating downloads and grabbing online media, all directly from the browser.[2] Torch Browser is commercial freeware offered for Microsoft Windows only.[3] Early versions of the browser have received mixed reviews, with some praising its interesting feature combination while others decrying its lack of add-on support (an issue which has been resolved in newer version).[4][5]
Torch is based on the Chromium source code.[5] Torch's most recent version (V23.0.0.2585) uses Chromium version 23, making it compatible with all add-ons and extensions available in the Chrome store.
Unique features
The built-in BitTorrent client allows users to download torrent files.[4] Users can directly share sites, videos, audio and search results with their Facebook and Twitter accounts.[6] Starting with version 23.0.0.2585, Torch includes drag and drop functionality which allows users to search and share using one click by dragging items onto predefined areas of the screen. A video describing this is on https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ItZmN paaHdY
Reception
Torch Browser has received mixed reviews from critics.
In October 2012 The Blog Herald said of Torch, "The Torch Web Browser is built on a lightweight framework that offers what appears to be decent security. If you like to browse the web while grabbing various files this might be the perfect browser for your arsenal of web applications. Overall I have been pleased with the Torch Browser and I only hope it continues to grow so more social sharing features can be experienced and more files can be grabbed."[4]
In reviewing Torch in December 2012, CNET said of Torch 2.0.0.1614: "An all-in-one Web browser is nothing to sneeze at, but Torch Browser isn't going to pry you away from Chrome or Firefox. While it has options that make sharing and social media a breeze, Torch Browser just isn't unique enough to win people's hearts. It lags in performance and its major features aren't worth making the switch...Torch Browser tries to carve out its niche by being an all-in-one Web browser... However, it doesn't do any of those things well enough to replace what you currently use. Once you get over the novelty, it becomes obvious that Torch Browser isn't that powerful as a Web portal. It's noticeably slower than other browsers and it doesn't have the same sort of add-on support. The layout is just a rip-off of the open-canvas setup of other, more popular browsers. None of this is to say that using it is all a bad experience. Torch Browser still runs circles around Internet Explorer and would be a major upgrade there...While not a threat to Firefox or Chrome, Torch Browser is easy enough to use and might just impress Internet Explorer users. Heavy downloaders might enjoy the torrent downloader and media player that come with it, too."[5]
References
External links
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