Brave Browser and Search

Brave is a privacy-focused web browser and search engine developed by Brave Software, Inc. It was founded in 2015 by Brendan Eich, the creator of JavaScript and co-founder of Mozilla, and Brian Bondy. The brand was built on the principle of providing a faster, more private browsing experience by automatically blocking online advertisements and website trackers in its default settings.

Since its inception, Brave has expanded its ecosystem to include Brave Search, an independent search engine that does not track users, as well as integrated crypto wallets and AI-driven features like Leo. The company is headquartered in San Francisco, California, and operates as an independent entity, maintaining its focus on user privacy and data sovereignty while challenging the dominant business models of traditional big tech search and advertising platforms.

Technically, the software is developed primarily in the United States and Canada, though as an open-source project, it receives contributions from developers worldwide. Its ultimate ownership remains with its original founders and private investors, including leading venture capital firms such as Founders Fund and Pantera Capital.