When it comes to AI chatbots and user privacy, concerns often arise. However, with the introduction of Ask Brave, users can enjoy AI search and chat functionalities without compromising their digital security. This innovative feature simplifies the AI search experience while remaining unobtrusive when not in use.
Integrating Chat and Search with Ask Brave
Similar to other leading browsers and search engines, Brave has integrated AI capabilities to enhance search result summaries. The platform features a helpful AI assistant named Leo, designed to assist users with follow-up queries. Unlike Google’s AI Mode, though, there was no straightforward option to activate the chat feature directly; it was confined to the Brave browser environment.
With the launch of Ask Brave, users can now access chat and search functionalities unified in one feature. Notably, this capability extends beyond the Brave browser, allowing integration with any browser in use.
Prioritizing Privacy with Brave’s AI Chats
While Ask Brave mirrors elements of Google AI Mode, a key distinguishing factor remains firmly rooted in privacy concerns. Google’s Gemini, for instance, retains chat history and may utilize it for AI training purposes. Despite claims of secure data storage, the reality of data breaches and sales often comes to light. Although users have the option to delete chat history and engage in temporary chats, this does not match the privacy guarantee offered by Brave.
Brave’s AI chat feature ensures that conversations are neither stored nor used for AI training, maintaining user ownership over chat content. Chats automatically delete after 24 hours of inactivity, giving users a chance to revisit discussions while ensuring prompt data removal thereafter.
Additionally, all chats are fortified with encryption, with the encryption key securely stored on the user’s local device—a layer of security aimed at preserving privacy. Users can benefit from this encryption without needing a Brave account. If desired, users can opt to make chats public, with the understanding that such entries will only be retained for a maximum of seven days.
Another significant difference from Google is that Ask Brave does not associate chats with your IP address; hence, there’s no risk of your identity being traced back to your conversations.
1. Use Question Marks to Activate Chat
To engage with Ask Brave, simply access Brave Search in any browser, or utilize your address bar if Brave is your default search engine.
Input your query followed by ?? to activate the chat. For instance, if you want to inquire about Brave’s new feature, search for “what is ask brave? ?” without quotes.
After entering your query, press Enter or click Ask to reveal the chat window.
2. Direct Access to Ask Brave
If you intend to frequently use this feature, consider bookmarking Ask Brave or setting it as your browser’s homepage. This approach allows for one-click access to the chatbot without routing through Brave Search first.
This method is akin to navigating directly to Google Gemini rather than going through Google Search first.
3. Search First, Then Engage with Ask
In an effort that may remind some of Google’s setup, Brave has incorporated an Ask button on the search results page, conveniently located just below your query.
Perform a search using Brave as you normally would, and once the results load, simply click Ask to seamlessly open the Ask Brave chat window.
4. Utilize the Ask Icon in the Search Box
If you’d prefer to initiate the chat without a preceding search, you can click the Ask icon located at the far right of the Brave search box before entering your query. This activates the chat window with your input ready for further discussion.
For Brave users, another option is available: accessing Ask Leo. Simply enter your query into the address bar and select Ask Leo from the suggested dropdown menu.
This method stores your chat history locally until you opt to delete it. To clear browsing history and cookies, you can press Ctrl + Shift + Del on your keyboard. Be sure to select Leo AI before tapping Delete history.
Alternatively, visit brave://leo-ai, click the three-dot menu in the corner, and access Advanced settings. From there, you can choose Clear Leo data to remove your chat history and any other Leo preferences. If desired, you can also disable the option to Store my conversation history in Leo’s personalization settings.
As more users are gravitating towards Brave over other AI browsers, the introduction of Ask Brave enhances its utility significantly. For those who find AI features less beneficial, Brave also serves effectively as an RSS reader.
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