Brave Launches $60 Browser Without AI, Crypto, or Ads
Brave Software has introduced Brave Origin, a premium version of its privacy-focused browser that removes AI, cryptocurrency, and several built-in services. Unlike most web browsers, which remain free, Brave Origin requires a one-time payment of $59.99.
The new browser launched on June 3 for Windows and macOS users. Instead of adding new tools, it removes 12 features found in the standard version. These include Leo AI, Brave Rewards, the crypto wallet, the built-in VPN, Brave News, Brave Talk, and sponsored new-tab content.
However, core privacy protections remain intact. Users still receive Brave Shields, which blocks ads and trackers, while Brave Search remains the default search engine.
The license works on up to 10 devices across supported platforms. Meanwhile, Linux users can access Brave Origin at no cost. Mobile support for iOS and Android is expected to arrive with Brave version 1.91.
Brian Bondy, Brave’s co-founder and CTO, said the product was a direct response to user demand. “Brave Origin was created in response to user requests for a streamlined version of our browser, and they expressed a willingness to pay to support our development expenses.”
What Makes Brave Origin Different
Many of the removed features can already be disabled in the standard Brave browser. However, Brave Origin takes a different approach by excluding those components entirely from the software build.
As a result, the code for AI tools, cryptocurrency features, and related services does not exist on the user’s device. In contrast, users who upgrade within the standard Brave browser only disable those features, while the underlying code remains available through settings.
Additionally, Brave stated that purchases use privacy-preserving blind token technology. Therefore, transactions cannot be linked to a specific browser installation.
Testing Whether Privacy Can Be a Paid Product
Brave confirmed that its free browser will continue to receive updates and retain full functionality. At the same time, the company says the one-time fee helps replace revenue that would otherwise come from the services removed in Brave Origin.
Consequently, the launch introduces a new experiment in the browser market. Rather than selling additional features, Brave is asking users to pay for a cleaner and more streamlined experience.
The move also raises a broader question: will privacy-focused users pay for a browser that removes features instead of adding them? That debate is likely to continue as more software companies expand AI-driven and data-based services.
