It takes a lot for an Android web browser to get our attention. We've got Chrome in all its Googleyness, and we've got Dolphin if you need something more extensible. But the new Atlas browser beta, from NextApp (developers of SystemPanel App), may just warrant your attention. In addition to speedy rendering and surprising responsiveness, Atlas has some advanced features hidden behind a solid user interface. Oh, and did we mention it uses some Material Design cues in its visuals?

From the primary browsing window, you can swipe in from the left edge of the screen to access to a big, finger-friendly tab selector. This panel also holds an option for a full-screen mode that hides the notification bar (which is something I've wanted from Chrome for ages) and a quick dual-pane view that lets you browse two tabs at once. The address bar also hides for more screen space and can be recalled with a downward swipe. Tap the <> button for tab navigation and history. Swipe in from the right, and you've got access to all kinds of advanced toggles, including mobile/desktop view, switches for high and low res images (or text only), and an advertising and pop-up blocker.

For those who like to view specific sites in specific ways, Atlas will allow you to customize your view settings for each site. This is a premium feature, but during the beta period the developer is giving all users of the currently free app access to it. While Atlas lacks Chrome's handy Google integration, it feels much faster, perhaps because it's running much lighter on memory. Give it a try while it's free if you're looking for something different.

Atlas Web Browser Developer: NextApp, Inc.
Price: Free
4.2
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